Pronunciation Guide: ah-mah-RAN-tee-nos

Basic Definition

Strong’s G262: ἀμαράντινος describes something that is composed of amaranth flowers or possessing the qualities of amaranth – specifically, unfading and imperishable. In biblical usage, it metaphorically represents eternal, undying qualities, particularly in reference to the reward awaiting faithful believers. The word carries the profound imagery of a victory wreath that, unlike natural flowers, never loses its beauty or vitality.

Etymology and Morphology

• Adjective derived from ἀμάραντος (amarantos)
• Root word meaning “unfading, permanent”
• Primarily used in descriptive contexts
• Found in both classical and Koine Greek literature
• Often appears in contexts involving awards or honors

ἀμαράντινος Morphology:

• ἀμαράντινος (nominative singular masculine) – unfading
• ἀμαράντινον (accusative singular masculine) – unfading
• ἀμαράντινοι (nominative plural masculine) – unfading ones
• ἀμαραντίνου (genitive singular masculine) – of unfading

Origin & History

The word derives from the amaranth flower (Amaranthus), whose name comes from the Greek prefix ἀ- (not) and μαραίνω (maraino, “to fade away”). The amaranth flower was well-known in the ancient world for its ability to retain its color long after being picked, making it a powerful symbol of immortality.

In classical Greek literature, Philostratus (Life of Apollonius 7.10) uses the term when describing eternal beauty. The philosopher Plutarch (Moralia) references amarantine wreaths as symbols of immortal glory. This association with immortality and lasting beauty made it a particularly meaningful term in both Hellenistic and early Christian contexts.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• Unfading, imperishable quality
• Made of amaranth (literally)
• Eternally enduring
• Perpetually fresh
• Immortally beautiful

ἀμαράντινος Translation Options:

• “Unfading” – Emphasizes the eternal, imperishable nature
• “Never-withering” – Captures the botanical metaphor while expressing permanence
• “Amaranthine” – Literary term that maintains connection to original Greek
• “Eternally fresh” – Conveys the ongoing vitality implied in the original

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἀμαράντινος appears only once, in 1 Peter 5:4, where it describes the “crown of glory” (στέφανος τῆς δόξης) that faithful shepherds of God’s flock will receive. This usage deliberately contrasts with the perishable wreaths given to victors in Greek athletic competitions, emphasizing the eternal nature of heavenly rewards.

The concept, though not the exact word, appears in the Septuagint’s translation of wisdom literature, particularly in passages discussing eternal rewards. The imagery connects to other New Testament passages about imperishable crowns:

• “And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading [ἀμαράντινον] crown of glory.” 1 Peter 5:4

Cultural Insights

In the Greco-Roman world, victory wreaths (στέφανοι) were awarded to athletes, military heroes, and civic leaders. These wreaths, typically made from olive branches, pine, or laurel, would inevitably wither. The contrast between these perishable wreaths and the ἀμαράντινος crown would have been particularly poignant to first-century readers.

The amaranth flower itself held special significance in ancient culture. Greek mythology associated it with immortality, and it was often planted on graves as a symbol of eternal memory. This cultural understanding adds depth to Peter’s use of ἀμαράντινος, suggesting not just duration but divine, immortal quality.

Theological Significance

The use of ἀμαράντινος in 1 Peter 5:4 reveals profound theological truth about the nature of heavenly rewards. Unlike earthly honors that fade and decay, the rewards that the Messiah bestows are eternal and imperishable. This reflects the unchanging nature of God Himself and His faithful promises.

The term also points to the resurrection hope of believers. Just as the crown is unfading, so too will be the glorified bodies and eternal life promised to those in the Messiah. This connects to Paul’s teaching about the imperishable inheritance reserved in heaven (1 Corinthians 9:25).

Personal Application

The promise of an ἀμαράντινος crown should inspire faithful service in ministry leadership. Unlike worldly recognition that fades with time, the rewards of serving the Messiah Jesus are eternal. This truth encourages perseverance through trials and challenges in ministry.

For all believers, ἀμαράντινος reminds us to focus on eternal rather than temporal rewards. It challenges us to invest in what lasts forever rather than what fades with time, encouraging a heavenly perspective in our daily choices and priorities.

Related Words

• ἀμάραντος (amarantos) – unfading, imperishable (more general term) – See G263
• ἄφθαρτος (aphthartos) – imperishable, immortal (broader concept) – See G862
• μαραίνω (maraino) – to fade away, wither (root word with negative prefix) – See G3133
• στέφανος (stephanos) – crown, wreath (often modified by ἀμαράντινος) – See G4735

Did you Know?

• The amaranth flower, from which ἀμαράντινος derives its meaning, is still cultivated today and remains a symbol of immortality in various cultures. Modern species can retain their vibrant colors for months after being cut, just as they did in ancient times.
• The term “amaranth” appears in poetry throughout history, including Milton’s “Paradise Lost,” where it symbolizes immortality. This literary usage directly connects to the biblical meaning of ἀμαράντινος.
• In the early church, Christians would sometimes place amaranth flowers on martyrs’ graves, symbolizing both their unfading testimony and the eternal life they gained through their faithful witness.

Remember This

ἀμαράντινος represents not just duration but divine quality – a reminder that what God gives never loses its glory but remains eternally perfect and beautiful.