πολύτιμος

of great value

Definition

The adjective πολύτιμος means 'of great value,' 'very costly,' or 'very precious.' It describes something possessing exceptionally high worth, whether in a material or metaphorical sense. In its two New Testament occurrences, it consistently conveys supreme value. In Matthew 13:46, it describes the 'pearl of great price' that a merchant sells everything to obtain, emphasizing its incomparable worth. In John 12:3, it modifies the 'very costly ointment' of pure nard that Mary used to anoint Jesus' feet, highlighting its extraordinary monetary expense and, by extension, the profound value of her act of devotion.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, but in two distinct yet thematically connected contexts. In Matthew 13:46, it is used in a parable (the Parable of the Pearl of Great Price) to describe the incalculable value of the kingdom of heaven. In John 12:3, it describes a physical object—a very expensive perfume—used in a deeply symbolic act of worship and preparation for Jesus' burial. Both uses underscore something of supreme worth that warrants total sacrifice or lavish devotion.

Etymology

πολύτιμος is a compound adjective formed from πολύς (polys, G4183), meaning 'much' or 'many,' and τιμή (timē, G5092), meaning 'honor,' 'price,' or 'value.' Literally, it means 'much-valued' or 'highly honored.' The root τιμή is central, connecting the word to concepts of honor, esteem, and financial cost. Its formation clearly communicates the idea of something whose worth is multiplied or greatly exceeds the ordinary.

Semantic Range

πολύτιμος is theologically significant as it directly describes the supreme value of God's kingdom (Matthew 13:46) and the priceless devotion owed to Christ (John 12:3). Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of these passages by emphasizing that the kingdom's worth demands our all, and that honoring Christ is worth any earthly cost. It frames discipleship not as a minor investment, but as a transaction involving one's most precious possessions for something of infinitely greater value.

In the ancient world, 'value' was often tied to tangible rarity and cost. The 'very costly ointment' (John 12:3) was likely a luxury import, representing a life's savings for an ordinary person, making Mary's act astonishingly extravagant. The 'pearl of great price' (Matthew 13:46) would have been understood as a nearly mythical treasure, the pinnacle of a merchant's quest. This cultural lens highlights that the biblical authors used the strongest possible language for material value to point toward spiritual realities of even greater worth.

τίμιος (timios, G5093) — also means 'precious' or 'valuable,' but generally of a high, rather than supreme, degree; often used for honorable character. ἐντίμως (entimōs, G1784) — means 'honored' or 'precious,' focusing more on the state of being held in high esteem.

Word Details

Scripture References