Brief Overview of περιφρονέω (Strong’s G4065: periphroneo)

Strong’s G4065: A compound verb meaning “to think beyond” or “to despise.” In biblical usage, warns against allowing others to despise or think little of one’s authority. Used uniquely in Titus 2:15 regarding pastoral leadership and spiritual authority.

U- Unveiling the Word

Περιφρονέω (periphroneo) combines mental activity with the concept of looking beyond or around something, resulting in considering it beneath one’s notice. Its primary meaning involves despising or disregarding, while secondary meanings include thinking beyond or looking down upon. In the New Testament, it appears in the context of pastoral authority and leadership, warning against allowing others to undermine spiritual leadership. Early church writers used this term to discuss the proper balance between spiritual authority and humility. Today, it remains relevant in discussions of church leadership, respect for spiritual authority, and the balance between confidence and pride.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: περιφρονέω, periphroneo, per-ee-fron-eh’-o
• Detailed pronunciation: per (as in “pair”) + ee (as in “see”) + fron (as in “throne”) + eh (as in “let”) + o (as in “oh”)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• περί (peri) – prefix meaning “around” or “beyond”
• φρονέω (phroneo) – verb meaning “to think” or “to mind”

D – Defining Meanings

• To despise
• To disregard
• To think beyond
• To look down upon
• To consider insignificant

For compound words:
Prefix περί indicates thinking around or beyond something
Root φρονέω provides the basic meaning of thinking or considering

Translation Options:

1. Despise – emphasizes negative regard
2. Disregard – captures the act of dismissing
3. Look down upon – reflects the attitude of superiority

E – Exploring Similar Words

• καταφρονέω (kataphroneo) [kat-af-ron-eh’-o] – to think down upon, more intense
• ὑπερφρονέω (hyperphroneo) [hoop-er-fron-eh’-o] – to think too highly of oneself
• φρονέω (phroneo) [fron-eh’-o] – to think, mind, basic form

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Verb Features:

• Tense: Present, Imperfect
• Voice: Active
• Mood: Imperative, Infinitive
• Person: Third
• Number: Singular, Plural

Example conjugations:
Present Active: περιφρονέω (I despise)
Present Imperative: περιφρονείτω (let him despise)
Present Infinitive: περιφρονεῖν (to despise)

Cross-references:

• Noun: περιφρόνησις (contempt)
• Adjective: περίφρων (contemptuous)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its use in contexts of authority. Thayer’s notes its connection to despising or disregarding. LSJ documents its classical usage in expressing contempt. Vine’s connects it to undermining authority. Strong’s emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the contempt implied. Moulton and Milligan note its use in contexts of social relationships.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

“Declare these things; exhort and rebuke with all authority. Let no one despise [περιφρονέω] you.” (Titus 2:15)

Additional References:
[This is the only occurrence in the New Testament]

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Περιφρονέω challenges us to consider the proper exercise and reception of spiritual authority. The good news of King Jesus establishes proper order in His church, where authority is neither abused nor despised. This word reminds us that legitimate spiritual leadership deserves respect while leaders must exercise their authority with Christ-like humility.

D – Did You Know?

1. The word was used in ancient philosophical debates about wisdom and foolishness.
2. Early church leaders used it to discuss the relationship between church and secular authority.
3. It appears in ancient military contexts regarding the danger of underestimating opponents.

Strong’s G4065: A compound verb combining “beyond” (περί) with “to think” (φρονέω). Used in pastoral context regarding the proper respect for spiritual authority. Warns against allowing others to despise or disregard legitimate leadership.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: #despise #authority #leadership #respect #pastoral #church #ministry #NewTestament #BiblicalGreek #Theology #spiritualLeadership #Titus​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​