περιφρονέω

I look down upon, despise

Definition

The verb περιφρονέω means to look down upon, despise, or treat with contempt. It carries the sense of holding someone or something in low regard, often with an attitude of arrogance or disregard. In its single New Testament occurrence in Titus 2:15, it is used in the imperative negative form (μηδείς περιφρονείτω), commanding that no one should despise or disregard the authority of Titus's teaching. The prefix περί can intensify the meaning, suggesting a comprehensive or thoroughgoing contempt.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only once in the New Testament, in Titus 2:15. It is used in a pastoral context where Paul instructs Titus to speak, exhort, and rebuke with all authority. The command 'let no one disregard you' (μηδείς περιφρονείτω) is directed at the recipients of Titus's ministry, emphasizing that his teaching carries apostolic authority and should not be treated with contempt or dismissed.

Etymology

The word is a compound verb formed from the preposition περί (peri), meaning 'around,' 'about,' or 'exceedingly,' and the verb φρονέω (phroneō), meaning 'to think,' 'to have a mindset,' or 'to be minded.' Literally, it means 'to think around' or 'to think beyond' someone, which developed into the figurative sense of thinking oneself above another, hence 'to despise' or 'look down upon.'

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it touches on the concept of authority within the church. In Titus 2:15, it underscores the importance of receiving godly instruction and correction from appointed leaders without contempt. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading by highlighting that rejecting sound teaching is not merely disagreement but an attitude of arrogant disdain, which undermines spiritual authority and community order.

In the Greco-Roman world, showing contempt for a teacher or leader was a serious breach of social honor and respect. The command against 'despising' in Titus would resonate in a culture where public reputation and deference to authority figures were paramount. It implies that Titus, as a representative of Paul and the gospel, must be received with the honor due to his office, not dismissed due to his youth or any other factor.

καταφρονέω (kataphroneō, G2706) — a more common synonym meaning 'to think down upon,' 'despise,' or 'scorn,' often used for despising people, things, or even God's riches (Romans 2:4). ἐξουθενέω (exoutheneō, G1848) — means 'to treat as nothing,' 'to set at naught,' or 'to reject with contempt,' used in contexts of rejecting persons or things (Luke 18:9, 1 Corinthians 1:28).

Word Details

Scripture References