Brief Overview of σεμνότης (Strong’s G4587: semnotēs)

Strong’s G4587: The quality of dignity, honor, and gravity in character and conduct. From σεμνός (honorable), it describes the state of being worthy of respect through moral excellence and dignified behavior, particularly important in Christian leadership and witness.

U- Unveiling the Word

σεμνότης represents the state or quality of being honorable and dignified in a way that commands respect. First appearing in 1 Timothy 2:2, it describes a characteristic vital for peaceful Christian living and effective witness. The term bridges personal piety and public reputation, suggesting a dignity that flows from genuine godliness rather than mere external behavior. Early church writers emphasized this quality as essential for Christian leaders and believers living in pagan society. Today, it challenges us to cultivate character that naturally earns respect and attracts others to Christ.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σεμνότης, semnotēs, sem-NO-tays
• Detailed pronunciation: stress on second syllable: ‘sem’ as in semi, ‘NO’ as in note, ‘tays’ as in days
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• σεμνός (semnos) – honorable, dignified
• -της (-tēs): Abstract noun suffix indicating state or quality

D – Defining Meanings

• Dignity
• Honorable character
• Moral gravity

For compound words:
Not applicable as σεμνότης is derived from σεμνός with a suffix

Translation Options:

• “Dignity” – Emphasizes bearing and demeanor
• “Honorableness” – Focuses on character quality
• “Moral gravity” – Stresses ethical weight and seriousness

E – Exploring Similar Words

• σεμνός (semnos, sem-NOS) – honorable See G4586
• εὐσχημοσύνη (euschēmosunē, eu-skay-mo-SOO-nay) – propriety See G2156
• σωφροσύνη (sōphrosunē, so-fro-SOO-nay) – soundness of mind See G4997

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Noun Features:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular (rarely plural)
• Gender: Feminine
• Declension: 3rd

Examples:
Singular: σεμνότης (nom), σεμνότητος (gen), σεμνότητι (dat), σεμνότητα (acc)

• Cross-references: Related adjective σεμνός

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes σεμνότης as dignity that commands respect. Thayer’s connects it to moral earnestness and gravity. LSJ traces its usage in contexts of public honor. Vine’s highlights its importance in Christian conduct. Strong’s relates it to venerable character. Moulton-Milligan documents its use in honorary inscriptions praising civic virtue.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.” 1 Timothy 2:2

Additional References:
1 Timothy 3:4, Titus 2:7

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

σεμνότης encapsulates the dignity and moral excellence that should characterize followers of Christ. This quality enables peaceful living and effective witness, demonstrating that the gospel transforms character. It reminds us that our conduct should reflect the majesty of our King Jesus, making His kingdom attractive to others through lives of authentic dignity and honor.

D – Did You Know?

1. σεμνότης was considered essential for civic leadership in ancient Greek society.
2. Early Christian texts used it to describe Christ’s character and the church’s ideal behavior.
3. The concept influenced medieval Christian ideas about moral dignity.

Strong’s G4587: The quality of dignity, honor, and gravity in character and conduct. From σεμνός (honorable), it describes the state of being worthy of respect through moral excellence and dignified behavior, particularly important in Christian leadership and witness.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: dignity, honor, moral excellence, character, Christian conduct, leadership qualities, pastoral epistles, Christian ethics, public witness, respectability, virtue, godly behavior​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​