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Eph 3:8. Τῷ ἐλαχιστοτέρῳ, less than the least) The idea of the name Paul,[43] increased by a comparative which rises higher than even the superlative; whereby it is implied that he scarcely reckons himself among the saints. This is modestly and very elegantly expressed.-τῶν ἁγίων, of the saints) The saints here are opposed to the Gentiles; comp. the note on Act 20:32.-ἀνεξιχνίαστον, unsearchable [never capable of being fully traced out]) Eph 3:18-19. There is a similar epithet found at Eph 3:10, manifold.-πλοῦτον, riches) Here heavenly riches are commended; presently after, wisdom, Eph 3:10.
[43] Paulus seems to be derived by Beng. from paulus, a diminution of paucus, little. This would give point to the ἐλαχιστοτέρῳ; not only paulus, little, but less than the least; but the Roman name, Paulus, probably had no connection with the adj. paulus. Cruden makes Paul Hebrew = a worker: as his former name Saul = a sepulchre, or destroyer.-ED.