αἴνεσις

praise

Definition

αἴνεσις (ainesis) specifically means the act of praising, a verbal expression of commendation or adoration. In the New Testament, it is used exclusively for praise directed toward God, not for praise between people. Its single occurrence in Hebrews 13:15 presents it as a 'sacrifice of praise' offered to God through Jesus Christ. This frames praise not as a casual act but as a deliberate, sacrificial offering from believers.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Hebrews 13:15: 'Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise (αἰνέσεως) to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name.' Here, αἴνεσις is part of a worship context, describing the verbal, confessional praise that replaces Old Testament animal sacrifices. It is presented as a continuous, Christ-mediated act of worship.

Etymology

Derived from the verb αἰνέω (aineō, G134), meaning 'to praise' or 'to speak in commendation.' The noun form αἴνεσις focuses on the act or expression itself. It is related to other praise words in the Greek New Testament, forming a word family centered on verbal acknowledgment and adoration.

Semantic Range

αἴνεσις is theologically significant as it redefines worship for the New Covenant community. In Hebrews 13:15, it is explicitly called a 'sacrifice,' connecting Christian praise to the sacrificial system of the Old Testament. This shows that verbal, heartfelt praise offered through Jesus is the proper and continual response of the believer, fulfilling and transcending the old rituals. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting praise as a core, sacrificial act of Christian life.

In the Greco-Roman world, praise (αἴνεσις) could be offered to gods, rulers, or benefactors. The New Testament's exclusive application to God reflects the early Christians' radical monotheism and refusal to offer divine worship to the emperor or other pagan deities. The concept of a 'sacrifice of praise' would resonate with both Jewish readers familiar with temple rituals and Gentile readers familiar with offerings to their gods, but it is re-centered solely on the God of Israel through Christ.

αἴνεσις (ainesis, G133) — the specific act or expression of praise. αἰνέω (aineō, G134) — the verb 'to praise.' ἔπαινος (epainos, G1868) — often denotes commendation or approval, sometimes from people, but also praise to God. εὐλογία (eulogia, G2129) — blessing, praise; often has a sense of speaking well of or conferring benefit.

Word Details

Scripture References