τιμή

a price, honor

Definition

The Greek word τιμή (timē) primarily carries two interconnected meanings: 'price' or 'value' and 'honor' or 'respect.' In the sense of a monetary price or value, it refers to the sum paid for something, as seen when the chief priests discuss the 'price of blood' for betraying Jesus (Matthew 27:6, 9) or the proceeds from selling property in the early church (Acts 4:34, 5:2-3). In its more common and profound sense, it denotes the honor, esteem, or reverence due to a person, such as the lack of honor a prophet receives in his hometown (John 4:44) or the respect shown to parents as commanded by God.

Biblical Usage

Τιμή is used 42 times in the New Testament, appearing across Gospels, Acts, and Epistles. Its usage as 'price' is concentrated in narrative contexts involving financial transactions (Matthew 27:6, 9; Acts 4:34, 5:2-3; Acts 19:19). The meaning of 'honor' is more widespread, used in ethical teachings about honoring parents (Matthew 15:4-8), civil authorities (Romans 13:7), and fellow believers (Romans 12:10). It also describes the glory and honor given to God (Revelation 4:9, 11; 5:12-13) and Christ (Hebrews 2:7, 9; 2 Peter 1:17).

Etymology

Derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *kʷei- ('to value, to esteem'), τιμή is a primary Greek noun. It is related to the verb τιμάω (timaō, G5091), meaning 'to honor or value.' The core concept uniting its meanings of 'price' and 'honor' is that of 'value' or 'worth' assigned to someone or something, whether in a commercial or social/moral sphere.

Semantic Range

Τιμή is theologically significant as it connects earthly value with divine honor. It underscores that true worth is not merely financial but is rooted in God's order. Believers are called to give appropriate honor—to parents, authorities, and one another—as an expression of godly living (Romans 12:10, 13:7). Most importantly, ultimate honor (τιμή) belongs to God and Christ, reflecting their supreme worth and glory in creation and redemption (Revelation 4:11, 5:12). Understanding this word enriches reading by highlighting how biblical ethics and worship revolve around rightly valuing God and others.

In the Greco-Roman world, τιμή was a central social concept tied to one's public reputation, status, and the respect owed within relationships (e.g., patron-client, family, citizen-state). Honor was a limited commodity in a 'honor-shame' culture; to give honor elevated another, while to receive it affirmed one's place. The monetary sense also reflects a culture where price and public worth could be closely linked. The New Testament both engages this cultural understanding and transforms it, directing ultimate honor away from human status to God and defining honor through service and humility in Christ.

δόξα (doxa, G1391) — more focused on glory, splendor, or radiant reputation, often of divine manifestation. ἀξία (axia, G514) — denotes worthiness or value that corresponds to something, often in the sense of 'due.' ἔπαινος (epainos, G1868) — specifically means praise, acclaim, or approval expressed in words.

Word Details

Scripture References