Unveiling the Word
Understanding the Greek word κενόδοξος (kenodoxos) is crucial in Biblical studies because it addresses the theme of vanity and self-centered pride—a recurring issue in Christian teachings. In the New Testament, κενόδοξος is used to warn against behaviors motivated by a desire for empty glory rather than genuine humility or godliness. The term also holds significance in understanding ancient Greek culture, where it was often used to critique those who sought fame without substance or merit, thereby emphasizing the importance of authentic virtue.
Necessary Information
Greek Word: κενόδοξος (kenodoxos), pronounced [keh-NO-dok-sos].
Etymology: The word κενόδοξος is a compound of two Greek words: κενός (kenos), meaning “empty” or “vain,” and δόξα (doxa), meaning “glory” or “reputation.” Together, they form a word that translates to “vain-glorious” or “empty of glory,” referring to someone who boasts without reason or seeks recognition without substance.
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Part of Speech: κενόδοξος is an adjective, describing a characteristic or quality of a noun. It modifies nouns to express the idea of vanity or empty boasting. As an adjective, it declines according to gender (masculine, feminine, neuter), number (singular, plural), and case (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative).
The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Defining Meanings
The primary meaning of κενόδοξος is “vain-glorious,” describing a person who seeks empty praise or boasts about unworthy achievements. This meaning emphasizes an attitude of self-importance based on things that lack true value.
Another meaning of κενόδοξος is “conceited.” This describes someone who has an inflated sense of self-worth or importance, often with little or no justification for such pride.
A third meaning is “boastful without cause,” referring to individuals who loudly proclaim their deeds or abilities without substantial basis. This term is frequently employed in moral and ethical discussions, especially those that promote humility and warn against vanity.
Exploring Similar Words
ἀλαζών (alazon) [al-ah-ZON]: This word means “boaster” or “braggart,” focusing on overt boasting and self-aggrandizement, compared to κενόδοξος, which also implies inner emptiness.
ὑπερήφανος (hyperēphanos) [hoo-per-AY-fah-nos]: Meaning “arrogant” or “haughty,” this term describes a more extreme pride or arrogance that manifests as looking down on others.
μεγαλοπρεπής (megaloprepēs) [meh-gah-lo-pre-PACE]: Translates as “magnificent” or “great in appearance.” While it can be positive, it differs from κενόδοξος by implying genuine grandeur or majesty rather than empty show.
Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
For Nouns/Adjectives: κενόδοξος is a second declension adjective. Here is a declension table for κενόδοξος:
| Case | Masculine (Singular) | Feminine (Singular) | Neuter (Singular) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nominative | κενόδοξος | κενόδοξος | κενόδοξον |
| Genitive | κενόδοξου | κενόδοξου | κενόδοξου |
| Dative | κενόδοξῳ | κενόδοξῳ | κενόδοξῳ |
| Accusative | κενόδοξον | κενόδοξον | κενόδοξον |
| Vocative | κενόδοξε | κενόδοξε | κενόδοξον |
These declensions demonstrate how the form of κενόδοξος changes to agree with the gender, number, and case of the noun it modifies. Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.
Studying Lexicon Insights
Insights from various lexicons reveal that κενόδοξος often critiques those who focus on external appearances or superficial achievements rather than internal virtues. In the New Testament, the term is used to caution believers against seeking recognition for things that lack spiritual or moral substance. Classical Greek usage similarly critiques societal behaviors that prioritize empty fame over genuine accomplishments, providing ethical reflections relevant to both ancient and modern readers.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Tracing Related Scriptures
Galatians 5:26: “Let us not become conceited [κενόδοξοι], provoking one another, envying one another.” This verse uses κενόδοξος to warn believers against conceit and rivalry, promoting humility and unity within the community of faith.
Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text with Greek Word |
|---|---|---|
| Aristotle | Nicomachean Ethics | “The man who seeks (κενόδοξος) praise without virtue is unworthy.” |
| Plutarch | Moralia | “Avoid becoming (κενόδοξος), for it brings dishonor.” |
| Septuagint | Psalms of Solomon 5:3 | “The righteous shall avoid the way of the (κενόδοξος).” |
Noteworthy Summary
The Greek word κενόδοξος serves as a powerful reminder in both Biblical and classical contexts about the dangers of empty pride and the pursuit of vain glory. It challenges readers to seek substance and genuine virtue rather than superficial praise or recognition. The term remains relevant in ethical and moral discussions today, calling for humility and sincerity in character.
Did You Know?
The term κενόδοξος is derived from the same root as κενοδοξία, which means “vain glory,” further emphasizing the theme of emptiness associated with superficial pride.
In classical Greek literature, κενόδοξος was often used to critique public figures who sought fame without merit, highlighting the value of authentic virtue.
The concept of κενόδοξος has influenced Christian teachings on humility, urging believers to focus on internal transformation rather than external accolades.
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