στέφανος

a crown, garland

Definition

A στέφανος is a crown or wreath, typically made of leaves, flowers, or precious materials, worn as a symbol of victory, honor, joy, or royalty. In the New Testament, it most often signifies the victor's crown awarded in athletic games (1 Corinthians 9:25) or the metaphorical crown of eternal life and reward for faithful Christian living (2 Timothy 4:8, Philippians 4:1). It can also refer to a literal, mock crown of thorns placed on Jesus (Matthew 27:29, John 19:2). Unlike a royal diadem, the stephanos often represents an earned honor rather than inherent sovereignty.

Biblical Usage

The word is used in various contexts across the New Testament. In the Gospels, it appears only for the crown of thorns placed on Jesus in mockery (Matthew 27:29, Mark 15:17, John 19:2, 5). In the epistles, it is used metaphorically for the believer's reward (1 Corinthians 9:25; Philippians 4:1; 1 Thessalonians 2:19; 2 Timothy 4:8; James 1:12; 1 Peter 5:4; Revelation 2:10) and for the crowns worn by heavenly beings or in visions of victory (Revelation 4:4, 10; 6:2; 9:7; 12:1; 14:14).

Etymology

Derived from the Greek verb στέφω (stephō), meaning 'to encircle' or 'to crown.' It refers to something that is woven or twined together, like a wreath. The related word στέφανον (stephanon) is the neuter form of the same noun.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it connects ancient cultural symbols of victory and honor to core Christian concepts of eternal reward and faithful perseverance. Understanding that a στέφανος is often an earned prize, not just a symbol of authority, enriches passages about the 'crown of life' (James 1:12, Revelation 2:10) and the 'crown of righteousness' (2 Timothy 4:8), emphasizing that these are gifts of grace given to those who endure. It contrasts with διάδημα (diadēma, G1238), which denotes a royal crown, highlighting the different aspects of Christ's and the believer's victory.

In the Greco-Roman world, a στέφανος was a wreath awarded to victors in athletic games, military conquerors, or guests at festive occasions. It symbolized public honor, achievement, and celebration. This cultural background is essential for understanding Paul's metaphor in 1 Corinthians 9:25, where he compares the perishable crown of the athlete to the imperishable crown awaiting the faithful Christian.

διάδημα (diadēma, G1238) — a royal crown, symbolizing sovereign authority and kingship, as worn by rulers (Revelation 12:3; 19:12).

Word Details

Scripture References