Brief Overview of σεμνός (Strong’s G4586: semnos)

Strong’s G4586: An adjective describing that which is honorable, dignified, and worthy of respect. In New Testament usage, it characterizes the conduct and character expected of believers, combining moral excellence with dignity that commands respect from both believers and unbelievers.

U- Unveiling the Word

σεμνός embodies the concept of dignified character that naturally commands respect. First appearing in Philippians 4:8, it describes qualities Christians should contemplate and embody. The term bridges religious and secular virtue, suggesting behavior that both honors God and earns society’s respect. Early church fathers emphasized this word when discussing Christian conduct that could positively influence pagan society. Today, it challenges believers to live with dignity and moral excellence that attracts others to Christ.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σεμνός, semnos, sem-NOSS
• Detailed pronunciation: stress on second syllable: ‘sem’ as in semi, ‘noss’ as in moss
• Part of Speech: Adjective

Etymology:

• From σέβομαι (sebomai) – to worship, revere
• -νός (-nos): Adjectival suffix indicating quality or state

D – Defining Meanings

• Honorable, dignified
• Worthy of respect
• Morally excellent

For compound words:
Not applicable as σεμνός is a primary adjective

Translation Options:

• “Honorable” – Emphasizes moral worth
• “Dignified” – Stresses bearing and demeanor
• “Venerable” – Combines respect with moral authority

E – Exploring Similar Words

• τίμιος (timios, TIM-ee-os) – precious, honorable See G5093
• ἅγιος (hagios, HAH-gee-os) – holy, set apart See G40
• εὐσχήμων (euschēmōn, eu-SKAY-mone) – respectable See G2158

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Adjective Features:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Masculine, Feminine, Neuter
• Declension: 2nd/1st

Examples:
Masculine: σεμνός (nom), σεμνοῦ (gen)
Feminine: σεμνή (nom), σεμνῆς (gen)
Neuter: σεμνόν (nom/acc), σεμνοῦ (gen)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes σεμνός’s dual aspect of moral worth and dignified bearing. Thayer’s connects it to religious reverence and moral gravity. LSJ traces its evolution from “holy” to “dignified.” Vine’s notes its importance in Christian character development. Strong’s links it to venerable behavior. Moulton-Milligan documents its use in honorary inscriptions.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“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, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8

Additional References:
1 Timothy 3:8, 1 Timothy 3:11, Titus 2:2

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

σεμνός calls believers to a life of dignity that naturally commands respect, reflecting Christ’s character. When Christians embody this quality, they demonstrate that following Jesus produces admirable character that attracts others to the gospel. This word reminds us that our conduct should make the teaching about God our Savior attractive.

D – Did You Know?

1. σεμνός was often used to describe the bearing of Greek gods and rulers.
2. Early Christian writings used it to describe both Christ’s character and ideal Christian behavior.
3. The term influenced the development of Western concepts of dignity and honor.

Strong’s G4586: An adjective describing that which is honorable, dignified, and worthy of respect. In New Testament usage, it characterizes the conduct and character expected of believers, combining moral excellence with dignity that commands respect from both believers and unbelievers.

Part of speech: Adjective

Tags: honor, dignity, respect, character, moral excellence, Christian conduct, virtue, pastoral epistles, Christian ethics, reputation, leadership qualities, moral behavior​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​