εὐσχήμων

comely, honorable

Definition

The adjective εὐσχήμων describes something or someone that is 'well-formed' or 'orderly' in appearance, leading to the core meanings of 'comely,' 'honorable,' or 'respectable.' In its physical or aesthetic sense, it refers to what is seemly or decorous, as in 1 Corinthians 12:24, where God gives greater honor to the parts of the body that lack it. In a social sense, it denotes individuals of honorable standing, wealth, or influence, such as Joseph of Arimathea, a respected council member (Mark 15:43), or the leading men and women in Antioch who opposed Paul (Acts 13:50).

Biblical Usage

This word is used five times in the New Testament, primarily in narrative and epistolary contexts to describe social status or propriety. In Acts, it identifies influential people in a city (Acts 13:50, 17:12). In 1 Corinthians, Paul uses it to discuss social decorum within the church and marriage (1 Corinthians 7:35) and the honor given within the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:24). The usage consistently bridges external respectability with internal virtue or God-given order.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek prefix εὖ (eu, 'well' or 'good') and the noun σχῆμα (schēma, 'form,' 'figure,' 'appearance'). Literally, it means 'having a good form' or 'well-shaped.' This root meaning evolved from a purely physical description to encompass social and moral respectability based on that orderly, pleasing appearance.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights the tension and harmony between external social standing and internal, God-honoring virtue. In 1 Corinthians 12:24, it underscores God's subversion of worldly values by bestowing greater honor on the 'less respectable' parts of the church body. Understanding εὐσχήμων enriches reading by revealing that biblical 'honor' is not merely societal prestige but is often redefined by God's grace and order, calling believers to live lives that are truly respectable in His sight.

In the Greco-Roman world, being εὐσχήμων was closely tied to public reputation, wealth, and social rank. It described the elite class whose visible lifestyle and conduct commanded respect. This differs from a modern individualistic understanding of honor; it was a public, communal status. When applied in the New Testament, it sometimes critiques this system, showing that God's community operates on a different principle of honor (1 Corinthians 12:24).

σεμνός (semnos, G4586) — emphasizes dignity and reverence, more focused on character than social rank; καλός (kalos, G2570) — broad term for 'good,' 'beautiful,' or 'noble,' often moral goodness; τιμή (timē, G5092) — the 'honor' or value itself, rather than the quality of being honorable.

Word Details

Scripture References