ἐπαινέω

I praise, commend

Definition

The verb ἐπαινέω means to praise, commend, or approve. It expresses a positive judgment or affirmation of someone's actions or character. In the New Testament, it can refer to human commendation, as when the master praises his dishonest manager for shrewdness (Luke 16:8). It also describes the act of praising God, as seen in the quotation from the Old Testament in Romans 15:11. In Paul's letters to the Corinthians, he uses the word to express his approval of their adherence to certain traditions (1 Corinthians 11:2), while also stating he cannot commend them for their divisive behavior during the Lord's Supper (1 Corinthians 11:17, 22).

Biblical Usage

ἐπαινέω is used five times in the New Testament, primarily in the writings of Luke and Paul. In Luke 16:8, it is used in a parable for a worldly, human commendation. Paul employs it in 1 Corinthians to express conditional approval or disapproval of the church's conduct (1 Corinthians 11:2, 17, 22). The single instance in Romans 15:11 is a quotation from the Greek Old Testament (Septuagint), calling Gentiles and all peoples to praise God, showing its use in a divine worship context.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐπί (epi, 'upon') and the verb αἰνέω (aineō, 'to praise'). The compound form intensifies the base meaning, suggesting a focused or specific praise, often for a particular reason or action. It is related to the noun ἔπαινος (epainos, G1868), meaning 'praise' or 'commendation.'

Semantic Range

This word highlights the dual object of praise: people and God. Its use in 1 Corinthians shows that Christian commendation is based on faithfulness to apostolic teaching and godly conduct, not worldly wisdom. In Romans 15:11, it connects to the theme of God's inclusion of the Gentiles in worship. Understanding ἐπαινέω helps distinguish between mere human approval and actions that are truly praiseworthy before God.

In the Greco-Roman world, public praise and commendation were important for social honor and reputation. A commendation (ἔπαινος) could be given for civic virtue, military success, or cleverness. Jesus' parable in Luke 16:8 subverts this cultural value, showing that the 'praise' of a dishonest man comes from a worldly system, not from God. Paul's use often challenges the Corinthian church's desire for social status and approval.

αἰνέω (aineō, G134) — The simpler base verb for 'to praise,' often used for praising God. δοξάζω (doxazō, G1392) — Means 'to glorify' or 'honor,' with a stronger focus on ascribing weight or splendor, commonly used for giving glory to God. εὐλογέω (eulogeō, G2127) — Means 'to bless' or 'speak well of,' encompassing both blessing from God and praise toward God.

Word Details

Scripture References