Brief Overview of δόξα (G1391: dóxa)

• δόξα (dóxa) [DOHK-sah]
• Etymology: The Greek noun δόξα (dóxa) is derived from the verb δοκέω (dokéō), which means “to think” or “to seem.” Initially, it related to one’s opinion or reputation but later evolved to signify honor and glory, particularly in a divine context.
• Part of Speech: Noun.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Glory: The primary meaning of δόξα (dóxa) is “glory,” referring to the divine splendor, majesty, or the recognition of something’s inherent worth or greatness. It is frequently used in the New Testament to describe the glory of God.
• Honor: Another central meaning of δόξα (dóxa) is “honor.” It refers to the respect or reverence given to someone due to their position, achievements, or character.
• Reputation: In earlier Greek usage, δόξα (dóxa) also meant “reputation” or “opinion,” reflecting how someone is perceived by others.
• Brightness or Splendor: δόξα (dóxa) can also denote physical brightness or splendor, often associated with divine or heavenly beings.

Further Insights:

• Morphological Composition: The word δόξα (dóxa) stems from the root δοκέω (dokéō), which means “to think” or “to seem.” This connection highlights the progression from a subjective opinion to an objective recognition of glory or honor.
• Semantic Evolution: The word’s evolution from “opinion” to “glory” illustrates a shift in focus from human judgment to divine attributes, particularly in biblical contexts where δόξα (dóxa) is often associated with God’s presence.
• Usage in Context: δόξα (dóxa) is frequently used in both secular and sacred contexts, where it conveys different nuances based on the subject—ranging from human honor to divine majesty.

Lexicon Insights:

• BDAG: In BDAG, δόξα (dóxa) is defined as “glory,” with an emphasis on honor, splendor, and divine radiance. It is commonly used in the New Testament to express the majesty and honor of God and Christ.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Thayer’s highlights δόξα (dóxa) as “opinion, judgment, view,” but also “splendor, brightness, magnificence, excellence,” especially in relation to God’s glory.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): LSJ notes that δόξα (dóxa) in classical Greek initially referred to opinion or reputation, but later came to signify glory and splendor, particularly in the context of divine or heroic figures.
• Scripture References:
• John 1:14: “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory (δόξα), the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.”
• Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory (δόξα) of God.”
• 1 Peter 1:24: “For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory (δόξα) of man as the flower of grass.”

Usage in Classical Greek Literature:

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• Homer, Iliad: In Homer’s Iliad, δόξα (dóxa) is used to describe the honor or glory achieved by warriors in battle, reflecting their reputation and heroic status.
• Herodotus, Histories: In Herodotus’ Histories, δόξα (dóxa) appears in the context of public opinion or the glory of states and rulers, often in a political or military context.
• Plato, Republic: In Plato’s Republic, δόξα (dóxa) is discussed in terms of belief or opinion, particularly concerning the nature of justice and the philosopher’s pursuit of truth.

Summary of δόξα (G1391: dóxa)

The Greek noun δόξα (dóxa), transliterated as dóxa and pronounced [DOHK-sah], carries rich and varied meanings, ranging from “glory” and “honor” to “reputation” and “splendor.” Originating from the verb dokéō meaning “to think” or “to seem,” dóxa evolved to express the majesty and radiance associated with divine or human greatness. In the New Testament, dóxa is predominantly used to describe the glory of God, reflecting His inherent worth and divine presence. Classical Greek literature also employs the term to convey the honor and reputation of individuals, particularly in contexts of heroism and public opinion. Through its usage, dóxa encapsulates the transition from subjective human perception to the objective acknowledgment of divine splendor.