Brief Overview of κλέος (Strong’s G2811: kleos)

Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for grasping the deeper meanings and cultural contexts embedded within the New Testament. The Greek word κλέος (kleos), which appears in 1 Peter 2:20, is particularly significant as it encapsulates the concept of “glory” or “renown.” This word carries substantial weight in both New Testament interpretation and the broader context of ancient Greek culture, where glory and honor were highly esteemed values. Recognizing the nuances of κλέος helps in understanding the layers of meaning behind the text and how early Christian teachings were communicated in a world familiar with these Greek cultural concepts.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: κλέος, transliterated as kleos [KLEH-os].

Etymology: The term κλέος originates from the Proto-Indo-European root ḱlew- meaning “to hear,” which evolved into the concept of fame or glory through the idea of being “heard of” or “spoken about.” In Greek, kleos became synonymous with the glory and renown one earns, often through heroic actions or virtuous behavior.

Part of Speech: Noun, Neuter. The word κλέος is a neuter noun, typically found in the nominative and accusative singular forms. In its usage in the New Testament, it does not appear in various declensions but is understood in its nominative case as a subject or in direct reference.

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Defining Meanings

1. Glory (Primary Meaning): κλέος primarily signifies “glory” or “fame.” It is the honor one receives in the eyes of others due to virtuous actions or significant accomplishments. This is the sense in which it is used in 1 Peter 2:20, where it refers to the “credit” or “glory” received from enduring suffering for doing good.
2. Renown or Reputation (Secondary Meaning): Beyond glory, κλέος can also refer to a general reputation or renown, particularly one that spreads widely and becomes a matter of public knowledge.
3. Honor (Tertiary Meaning): κλέος can be translated as “honor,” closely associated with the esteem one garners within their community or society.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Δόξα (doxa) [DOX-ah]: This word also means “glory” but is more commonly used in the New Testament to refer to divine glory, splendor, or radiance. Unlike κλέος, which can be more secular, δόξα often carries a connotation of divine or heavenly glory.
2. Εὔφημος (euphemos) [YOO-fee-mos]: Meaning “of good repute” or “well-spoken of,” this word focuses more on the favorable speech about a person rather than the inherent glory associated with their deeds.
3. Τιμή (time) [TEE-may]: This word translates as “honor” or “value” and often implies the worth assigned to someone or something, which may not necessarily be due to fame or renown as κλέος suggests.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

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Case, Number, Gender:
κλέος is a neuter noun, typically found in the nominative or accusative singular form. It does not exhibit plural forms in its New Testament usage and is rarely declined into other cases.

Declension:
κλέος follows a third declension pattern in Greek grammar:

For further understanding of Greek declensions and grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

κλέος is understood in New Testament and classical Greek contexts as a term conveying glory, fame, or honor. It is used sparingly in the New Testament but carries significant theological implications, particularly in contexts where Christians are encouraged to endure suffering for righteousness, thus gaining “credit” or “glory” before God. In classical Greek literature, κλέος often referred to the glory won by warriors in battle, an idea that resonates with the early Christian concept of spiritual battles and perseverance. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. 1 Peter 2:20: “For what credit is there if, when you sin and are harshly treated, you endure it with patience? But if when you do what is right and suffer for it, you patiently endure it, this finds favor [κλέος] with God.” Here, κλέος is translated as “credit” or “glory” that believers earn by enduring suffering for doing good.

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

κλέος, meaning “glory” or “fame,” is a Greek noun that carries deep significance in Biblical and classical contexts. Its usage in 1 Peter 2:20 highlights the spiritual value of enduring suffering for righteousness, aligning with the ancient Greek understanding of earning renown through virtuous or heroic deeds. By studying κλέος, readers gain a richer understanding of both the cultural and theological nuances present in the New Testament.

Did You Know?

1. κλέος is often associated with ancient Greek heroes, who sought fame and glory through their exploits, particularly in Homer’s epic poetry.
2. The concept of κλέος was not only about individual glory but also about the lasting legacy one leaves behind, making it a key theme in Greek philosophy and literature.
3. In the New Testament, κλέος is used to emphasize the eternal “credit” or “glory” that comes from living a righteous life, a significant departure from its more worldly classical usage.