← Back to Lexicon
G1645 · Greek · New Testament
ἐλαφρός
Elaphros
Adjective
light (in weight), easy, not burdensome

Definition

The Greek adjective elaphros means light in weight or easy — not heavy or burdensome. It appears in Matthew 11:30 (Jesus: "my yoke is easy and my burden is light (elaphron)") and in 2 Corinthians 4:17 ("our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all").

Usage & Theological Significance

The two NT uses of elaphros form a stunning theological pair. In Matthew 11:30, Jesus declares that following Him involves a burden that is elaphros — light, easy, well-fitted. This is not a promise of pain-free life but of a burden borne with divine help. In 2 Corinthians 4:17, Paul reframes suffering itself as elaphros — "light and momentary" when compared to the weight of eternal glory. Both uses require the perspective of eternity: what feels heavy now is, in the economy of God, extraordinarily light.

Key Bible Verses

Matthew 11:30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
2 Corinthians 4:17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.
Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
1 John 5:3 In fact, this is love for God: to keep his commands. And his commands are not burdensome.
Psalm 55:22 Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you.

Related Words

External Resources

🌙
☀️