UBS Dictionary of the Greek New Testament

Sense 1: light, not heavy

Semantic entry: 86.2

Semantic domains: Weight

Subdomains: Heavy, Light

Definition: pertaining to being relatively light in weight

Notes: Though in OET MAT 11:30 ἐλαφρός can be understood in a literal sense, the entire statement in this verse is, of course, figurative. Therefore, one can also interpret ἐλαφρός in OET MAT 11:30 as figurative (see 22.38: ἐλαφρός). Note, however, that the phrase ὁ … ζυγός μου does not refer to something which Christ carries but to something which he places upon his followers. The same is true of the phrase τὸ φορτίον μου ‘my burden,’ which is the burden he gives to his disciples or servants.

Sense 2: limited, light, not intense

Semantic entry: 78.10

Semantic domains: Degree

Subdomains: Much, Little [Positive-Negative Degree]

Definition: a strictly limited point on the lower part of a scale of extent

Sense 3: light, easy

Semantic entry: 22.38

Semantic domains: Trouble, Hardship, Relief, Favorable Circumstances

Subdomains: Easy, Light

Definition: pertaining to that which is easy to bear or endure

Notes: It is possible to render ἐλαφρός in OET MAT 11:30 as ‘light,’ in the sense of ‘light in weight’ (see 86.2: ἐλαφρός). However, if ‘burden’ in OET MAT 11:30 is understood figuratively, ἐλαφρός can generally also be understood in a figurative sense.