ἔντιμος

precious, honored, honorable

Definition

The adjective ἔντιμος (entimos) primarily means 'precious, honored, or held in high esteem.' It describes something or someone of great value, whether in terms of intrinsic worth or conferred honor. In Luke 7:2, it refers to a slave who was 'highly valued' by his master, indicating personal esteem. In social contexts like Luke 14:8, it denotes a place of 'honor' at a feast, reflecting rank or status. When applied to Christ in 1 Peter 2:4, 6, it carries the profound sense of 'precious' and 'chosen,' highlighting His supreme value to God and believers.

Biblical Usage

ἔντιμος is used five times in the New Testament across various contexts. In Luke's Gospel, it appears in a narrative about a centurion's slave (Luke 7:2) and in a parable about seating at a wedding (Luke 14:8), illustrating social honor. In the epistles, Paul uses it for Epaphroditus, whom believers should 'hold in honor' (Philippians 2:29) for his ministry. Most theologically, Peter applies it twice to Christ as the 'living stone,' chosen and 'precious' (1 Peter 2:4, 6), quoting Isaiah 28:16 (LXX) to emphasize Jesus' foundational role.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐν (en, 'in') combined with the root of τιμή (timē, 'honor, value, price'). Literally, it means 'in honor' or 'held in value.' This construction intensifies the sense of being esteemed or precious. Cognates like τίμιος (timios, G5093) also mean 'precious,' but ἔντιμος often carries a stronger connotation of being honored within a specific relationship or context.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it bridges concepts of social honor and divine value. When Peter calls Christ 'precious' (1 Peter 2:4, 6), it underscores Jesus' unique worth to God and His centrality to salvation—He is the honored cornerstone. Understanding ἔντιμος enriches reading by showing how early Christians transferred cultural ideas of honor to affirm Christ's supreme status and the honored position of faithful believers (Philippians 2:29) within the community.

In the Greco-Roman world, honor (τιμή) was a core social value. Being ἔντιμος meant enjoying public respect, a high rank, or being highly prized by a patron. The word's use in Luke 14:8 reflects the strict seating protocols at meals, where honor was visibly assigned. This cultural backdrop makes Peter's application to Christ—a crucified figure—striking, as it redefines 'preciousness' not by worldly status but by God's choice.

τίμιος (timios, G5093) — Also means 'precious' or 'valuable,' but often focuses more on material worth or cost, whereas ἔντιμος emphasizes being held in honor. ἔνδοξος (endoxos, G1741) — Means 'glorious' or 'honored,' with a stronger focus on splendor or reputation.

Word Details

Scripture References