διπλοῦς

double, two-fold

Definition

The adjective διπλοῦς means 'double' or 'two-fold,' describing something that is twice as much or composed of two parts. In Matthew 23:15, it is used metaphorically to describe a 'son of hell' who is twice as much a child of Gehenna as the Pharisee who converted him, intensifying the condemnation. In 1 Timothy 5:17, it carries a positive, literal sense of 'double honor,' referring to both respect and financial remuneration for elders who lead well. In Revelation 18:6, it is used in a judicial context of exact retribution: 'repay her double' for her sins.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only three times in the New Testament, each in a distinct context that shapes its meaning. In Matthew 23:15, it is used in a polemical discourse by Jesus against hypocrisy. In 1 Timothy 5:17, it appears in a pastoral epistle giving instructions for church governance. In Revelation 18:6, it is part of a prophetic pronouncement of judgment against Babylon. The pattern shows its flexibility, applying to moral status, reward, and punitive justice.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek root δι- (di-), meaning 'two' or 'twice,' and related to the word πλόος (ploos) meaning 'a sailing' or 'voyage,' but in this compound it conveys the sense of '-fold.' It is cognate with διπλόος (diploos), an alternate spelling with the same meaning. The basic idea is duality or multiplication by two.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it touches on the biblical principles of just measure and proportionate consequence. In Matthew 23:15, it underscores the serious responsibility and culpability of religious leaders. In 1 Timothy 5:17, it establishes a New Testament principle for honoring and providing for church leadership. In Revelation 18:6, it reflects the Old Testament lex talionis ('eye for an eye') applied in God's final judgment, emphasizing that divine justice is exact and fitting.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of 'double' honor or payment was a recognized principle in both social and legal contexts, denoting a special reward or a penalty. The idea of repaying 'double' (Revelation 18:6) echoes the restitution laws found in the Old Testament (e.g., Exodus 22:4, 7, 9), where a thief had to repay double for stolen property, framing it as a standard for full compensation and justice.

δίς (dis, G1364) — an adverb meaning 'twice'; it indicates frequency rather than a twofold nature or amount.

Word Details

Scripture References