τιμάω

I value at a price, honor

Definition

The verb τιμάω (timaō) carries two primary meanings in the New Testament: to honor or show respect, and to value or set a price. In its most common usage, it means to honor, especially in the context of relationships, such as honoring one's parents (Matthew 15:4, Mark 7:10) or honoring God (John 5:23). This sense involves deep respect and proper valuation of someone's worth. The other sense, to value or estimate a price, appears in Matthew 27:9, referencing the price set for Jesus' betrayal. Both meanings revolve around the core idea of assigning proper worth.

Biblical Usage

Τιμάω is used 16 times, primarily in the Gospels and Ephesians. Its most frequent context is in Jesus' teachings about the commandment to 'honor your father and mother' (Matthew 15:4, 19:19, Mark 7:10, Ephesians 6:2). It is also used in critiques of hollow religious honor directed toward God (Matthew 15:8, Mark 7:6). The usage in Matthew 27:9 for 'pricing' the potter's field is a notable exception, applying the word to a monetary valuation.

Etymology

Derived from the noun τιμή (timē, G5092), meaning 'price, honor, value.' The verb form inherently means 'to set a value upon' or 'to ascribe honor.' This root connection shows that the concepts of monetary value and social/moral honor were closely linked in the Greek mind, both stemming from the idea of assessing worth.

Semantic Range

This word is central to understanding biblical commands about relationships and worship. Honoring parents is tied to long life (Ephesians 6:2-3), and honoring God is contrasted with empty tradition (Mark 7:6). The dual meaning enriches passages like Matthew 27:9, where the 'price' set for Jesus ironically reflects the world's failure to recognize His true, infinite worth and honor. Properly understanding τιμάω challenges believers to give God and others the genuine honor and value they are due.

In the Greco-Roman world, honor (timē) was a foundational social value, governing family and civic relationships. To honor someone was to publicly acknowledge their status and worth. Honoring parents was not merely about affection but about fulfilling a sacred social duty that ensured family stability. The biblical command co-opts this powerful cultural concept, rooting it not in social convention but in God's law and the inherent worth of persons made in His image.

σεβόμενοι (sebomenoi, G4576) — emphasizes religious reverence or worship, often directed toward God. δοξάζω (doxazō, G1392) — focuses on giving glory or splendor, often highlighting the manifestation of intrinsic excellence.

Word Details

Scripture References