Brief Overview of αἰσχύνη (G152)

The Greek word αἰσχύνη (aischynē) means “shame” or “modesty.” It refers to a sense of dishonor, disgrace, or moral discomfort, and can also denote a quality of modesty or reverence for ethical standards. This term is used to describe feelings or conditions that involve a sense of shame or propriety.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• G152 αἰσχύνη (aischynē): Strong’s defines this term as “shame” or “modesty.” It encompasses a sense of disgrace or dishonor that one feels or experiences, as well as a quality of modesty. The term is used to denote feelings of moral discomfort or embarrassment and is employed in contexts where modesty or ethical propriety is emphasized (e.g., Romans 6:21; 1 Peter 3:5).

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• According to Thayer’s, αἰσχύνη means “shame” or “modesty.” Thayer’s explains that the term refers to a feeling of disgrace or dishonor, as well as a sense of modesty or propriety. It describes a reaction to moral failure or improper behavior and includes the concept of reverence for ethical standards (e.g., Romans 6:21; 1 Peter 3:5). Thayer’s highlights the dual aspect of the term in conveying both shame and modesty.

1. Brown-Driver-Briggs (BDB) Lexicon:

• BDB describes αἰσχύνη as “shame” or “modesty.” The lexicon emphasizes the term’s use in referring to feelings of dishonor or moral discomfort, as well as a quality of modesty or propriety. It reflects a sense of ethical failure or discomfort and can also denote a form of reverence for proper conduct (e.g., Romans 6:21; 1 Peter 3:5). BDB’s explanation underscores the term’s broad application to both shame and modesty.

1. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon:

• The LSJ Lexicon defines αἰσχύνη as “shame” or “modesty.” It notes that the term refers to feelings of disgrace or dishonor, as well as a characteristic of modesty. In classical and New Testament contexts, it describes a reaction to improper behavior or moral failure, and includes the aspect of reverence for ethical standards (e.g., Romans 6:21; 1 Peter 3:5). LSJ highlights the term’s use in both conveying shame and reflecting modesty.

In summary, αἰσχύνη encompasses the concepts of shame and modesty, referring to feelings of dishonor or moral discomfort and a quality of ethical propriety, as used in both classical and New Testament contexts.