G4696
σπίλος
a stain or blemish, i.e. (figuratively) defect, disgrace
Transliteration
spílosPronunciation
(spee'-los)Everything you need to know.
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a stain or blemish, i.e. (figuratively) defect, disgrace
σπίλος(spílos)
Strong’s Definition
a stain or blemish, i.e. (figuratively) defect, disgrace
of uncertain derivation;
“That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.”
No verses found containing this word study ID.
Strong's G4696: A masculine noun meaning spot, stain, or blemish. In New Testament usage, it carries both literal and moral significance, particularly in contexts of spiritual purity. Its appearance in Ephesians describes what the church should be without, while 2 Peter uses it to describe moral defects.
U- Unveiling the Word
Σπίλος represents both physical and moral imperfection. In Ephesians 5:27, it appears in Paul's description of the church that the Messiah is preparing for Himself - one without spot or wrinkle. This imagery draws from marriage customs where the bride would be presented unblemished. In 2 Peter 2:13, it describes moral blemishes in the community. The early church saw this dual usage as emphasizing both the present need for moral purity and the future perfection promised in the Messiah. Today, it continues to remind us of our call to holiness and Christ's purifying work.
N - Necessary Information
Etymology:
D - Defining Meanings
Translation Options:
E - Exploring Similar Words
R - Reviewing the Word's Morphology
Morphological Features:
Examples:
S - Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes both physical and moral applications. Thayer's notes its use in marriage contexts. LSJ traces its development in classical Greek. Vine's highlights its significance in ecclesiological contexts. Moulton and Milligan document its use in commercial contexts regarding damaged goods.
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T - Tracing the Scriptures
First Appearance:
Ephesians 5:27: "that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot [σπίλος] or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish."
Additional References:
2 Peter 2:13
A - Analyzing Classical Usage
N - Noteworthy Summary
Σπίλος reminds us of both our present call to holiness and the Messiah's promise to present His church spotless. While exposing our imperfections, it ultimately points to Jesus' transforming work, making us pure and blameless before Him.
D - Did You Know?
Strong's G4696: A masculine noun denoting spot or blemish, used both literally and metaphorically in the New Testament. It appears in contexts emphasizing the church's call to purity and the Messiah's work of sanctification.
Part of speech: Masculine Noun
Tags: purity, holiness, church, sanctification, blemish, marriage, Ephesians, Peter, spiritual growth, perfection