καταισχύνω

I shame, disgrace, put to utter confusion

Definition

The verb καταισχύνω means to shame, disgrace, or put to utter confusion. It often describes causing someone to feel deep shame or dishonor, as when Jesus' opponents were 'put to shame' after being silenced (Luke 13:17). In a more active sense, it means to frustrate or disappoint someone's hope, as in Romans 5:5 where hope 'does not put us to shame' because God's love is poured out. It can also mean to bring into a state of disgrace or public humiliation, such as when believers are warned not to 'shame' their head (1 Corinthians 11:4-5).

Biblical Usage

This verb is used 12 times in the New Testament, primarily in the Pauline epistles and Luke. It appears in contexts of public humiliation (Luke 13:17), the unshakable nature of Christian hope (Romans 5:5, 9:33, 10:11), God's confounding of worldly wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:27), and proper conduct in worship (1 Corinthians 11:4-5, 22). A key pattern is its use to contrast human shame with divine vindication, especially in Romans where trusting in Christ means one 'will not be put to shame.'

Etymology

Derived from the preposition κατά (kata), meaning 'down' or 'against,' and the root related to ἰσχύς (ischys, 'strength'), though the verb form 'ischynō' is not common. The compound suggests bringing someone down into a state of shame or weakness, intensifying the sense of disgrace. It carries a stronger, more public connotation than simple shame (αἰσχύνω).

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant, especially in Paul's writings, where it addresses the core gospel promise that those who trust in Christ 'will never be put to shame' (Romans 10:11, quoting Isaiah 28:16). It contrasts human failure and disgrace with God's faithful vindication. In 1 Corinthians 1:27, it reveals God's upside-down kingdom, where He chooses the weak to shame the strong. Understanding this term enriches reading by highlighting the biblical theme of shame transformed through hope in God.

In the ancient Greco-Roman and Jewish world, honor and shame were central cultural values. Public disgrace (καταισχύνω) meant a profound loss of social standing and identity. Being 'put to shame' was not merely a private feeling but a public reality affecting one's place in the community. This contrasts with modern individualistic notions of shame, making the biblical promises of 'no shame' for believers especially powerful as declarations of public honor and acceptance before God and others.

αἰσχύνω (aischynō, G153) — a more general term for feeling shame or being ashamed, less intense and public. ἐντρέπω (entrepo, G1788) — to turn in on oneself, feel respect or shame, often with a sense of moral rebuke. ὀνειδίζω (oneidizō, G3679) — to reproach, revile, or cast blame, focusing on verbal insult rather than the internal state of shame.

Word Details

Scripture References