Introduction
Understanding Greek nouns in Biblical studies is crucial for interpreting the New Testament and appreciating the rich nuances of ancient Greek culture. The Greek word ἔπαινος (epainos), which means “praise” or “commendation,” is significant in both secular and religious contexts. This term frequently appears in the New Testament, reflecting the importance of recognizing and appreciating virtue, goodness, and honorable actions among early Christian communities and in broader Greek thought.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἔπαινος, transliterated as epainos [EH-pah-ee-nos].
- Etymology: Derived from the preposition ἐπί (epi, meaning “upon” or “on”) and αἶνος (ainos, meaning “praise” or “commendation”).
- Part of Speech: Noun; masculine; second declension.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Praise, commendation, approval.
- Recognition of merit or honor.
- A declaration of something praiseworthy or good.
Similar Words: εὐφημία (euphēmía) [you-fay-MEE-ah] refers to “good repute” or “fame,” often used in the context of public acclaim. ἔγκωμιον (enkomion) [en-KOH-mee-on] is another related term that means “encomium” or “formal praise,” usually given in a speech or writing that extols someone’s virtues.
Further Insights: ἔπαινος is a masculine noun belonging to the second declension. Its lexical form suggests it primarily serves as a noun of praise or approval. Here is a table showing the full declension of ἔπαινος:
| Case | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative | ἔπαινος (epainos) | ἔπαινοι (epainoi) |
| Genitive | ἐπαίνου (epainou) | ἐπαίνων (epainōn) |
| Dative | ἐπαίνῳ (epainō) | ἐπαίνοις (epainois) |
| Accusative | ἔπαινον (epainon) | ἐπαίνους (epainous) |
| Vocative | ἔπαινε (epaine) | ἔπαινοι (epainoi) |
Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek to learn more about Greek grammar, including noun declensions.
Lexicon Insights
BDAG: Notes that ἔπαινος refers to “praise, commendation” and can be directed towards God, people, or actions deemed worthy of approval. The term is often used in contexts where a person or their deeds are being publicly recognized and honored.
Thayers: Describes ἔπαινος as “praise, commendation,” emphasizing its use in both religious and secular contexts to denote approval and admiration. Thayer’s lexicon also provides examples from biblical texts where ἔπαινος signifies approval from God or fellow believers.
Vines: Focuses on ἔπαινος as “praise” and “commendation,” particularly highlighting its use in the New Testament to reflect divine approval or the praise of God by believers. Vines also mentions its frequent use in relation to ethical conduct and virtuous actions.
LSJ: Provides a broader view, noting that ἔπαινος appears in classical literature to indicate “praise” or “fame,” often related to the valor and virtuous deeds of individuals in works of authors like Plato, Aristophanes, and others.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Confirms that ἔπαινος (G1868) stems from the root words ἐπί and αἶνος, meaning “praise” or “commendation.” It is used in contexts of both divine and human approval, with an emphasis on the recognition of virtuous actions or qualities.
Related Scripture References
- Romans 2:29: “But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise (ἔπαινος) is not of men, but of God.”
- 1 Corinthians 4:5: “Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise (ἔπαινος) of God.”
- Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise (ἔπαινος), think on these things.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text with Greek Word in Parentheses |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Phaedrus | “The gods grant (ἔπαινος) to those who seek wisdom.” |
| Aristophanes | The Clouds | “The elders give (ἔπαινος) to those who act bravely.” |
| Aristotle | Nicomachean Ethics | “Virtue is worthy of honor and praise (ἔπαινος).” |
| Septuagint Example | Psalms | “Let everything that has breath praise (ἔπαινος) the Lord.” |
| Septuagint Example | Proverbs | “A virtuous woman receives praise (ἔπαινος).” |
| Septuagint Example | Isaiah | “You shall be a crown of glory and a royal diadem, a praise (ἔπαινος) in the hand of your God.” |
Summary of ἔπαινος (G1868: Epainos)
The noun ἔπαινος (epainos) holds a vital place in New Testament and classical Greek literature as a term denoting “praise” or “commendation.” It encompasses the idea of recognizing and celebrating virtue, character, and good deeds, whether directed toward humans or God. In biblical contexts, it reflects the values and ethical standards of early Christian communities, highlighting the importance of living a life worthy of divine and communal approval. Its usage in classical texts further underscores its cultural relevance, from public acclaim to philosophical discussions on virtue.
Did You Know?
Did you know that in ancient Greek society, public ἔπαινος (epainos) was not only a mark of honor but also served as a form of social encouragement? Leaders, warriors, and philosophers were publicly praised to promote the values and virtues admired in Greek culture. In early Christian writings, ἔπαινος often underscores the importance of living a life pleasing to God, aligning moral conduct with divine standards.
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