G4411
πρωτοκλισία
a reclining first (in the place of honor) at the dinner-bed, i.e. preeminence at meals
Transliteration
prōtoklisíaPronunciation
(pro-tok-lis-ee'-ah)Everything you need to know.
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a reclining first (in the place of honor) at the dinner-bed, i.e. preeminence at meals
πρωτοκλισία(prōtoklisía)
Strong’s Definition
a reclining first (in the place of honor) at the dinner-bed, i.e. preeminence at meals
from G4413 (πρῶτος) and G2828 (κλισία);
“And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues,”
No verses found containing this word study ID.
Strong's G4411: A feminine noun combining "first" (πρῶτος) and "reclining place" (κλισία), referring to the most honored position at formal meals and banquets. Used in Jesus' criticism of religious leaders who sought social status through claiming places of honor at feasts.
U- Unveiling the Word
πρωτοκλισία refers to the most honored reclining position at formal dining occasions, typically reserved for distinguished guests. In ancient Middle Eastern culture, the seating arrangement at meals carried significant social implications, with the most honored positions indicating status and influence. The word appears in Jesus' criticisms of religious leaders who actively sought such positions of honor, revealing their pride and desire for public recognition. Early church fathers frequently referenced this term when discussing the dangers of seeking social prestige within the Christian community. Today, it serves as a powerful reminder of Christ's teaching that true greatness comes through humility and service, not through claiming positions of honor.
N - Necessary Information
Etymology:
D - Defining Meanings
For compound words:
The compound structure combines:
Translation Options:
E - Exploring Similar Words
R - Reviewing the Word's Morphology
As a feminine noun of the first declension, πρωτοκλισία exhibits:
Examples of morphological changes:
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S - Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes the social significance of the term in ancient dining customs. Thayer's notes its use in Jesus' teachings against pride. LSJ documents its usage in describing formal dining arrangements. Vine's connects it to similar terms expressing social ambition. Strong's emphasizes its compound nature and literal meaning. Moulton and Milligan note its appearance in papyri describing banquet protocols. LEH discusses its usage in describing formal meal arrangements.
T - Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
Matthew 23:6 "And love the uppermost rooms [πρωτοκλισία] at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues."
Additional References:
Mark 12:39, Luke 11:43, Luke 14:7, Luke 20:46
A - Analyzing Classical Usage
N - Noteworthy Summary
πρωτοκλισία powerfully illustrates Jesus' teaching about true greatness in God's kingdom. While religious leaders sought prominent positions at feasts, Jesus taught that the way up is down. This word reminds us that the gospel inverts worldly values – those who exalt themselves will be humbled, but those who humble themselves will be exalted. In Christ's kingdom, true honor comes not from claiming high positions but from serving others in love.
D - Did You Know?
Strong's G4411: A feminine noun combining "first" (πρῶτος) and "reclining place" (κλισία), referring to the most honored position at formal meals and banquets. Used in Jesus' criticism of religious leaders who sought social status through claiming places of honor at feasts.
Part of speech: Noun (feminine)
Tags: dining customs, honor, status, feasts, banquets, social hierarchy, pride, humility, Pharisees, religious criticism, table fellowship, social status