ταπεινός
tapeinos
lowly
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word "ταπεινός" (tapeinos) is translated as "lowly". Its meaning is related to physical or social position, suggesting that something or someone is humble in status or appearance. This word is used eight times in the Bible, which indicates its importance in the context of scriptural messages. The significance of "tapeinos" lies in its association with humility and modesty. In a world where power and status were highly valued, the concept of being "lowly" would have been perceived as a departure from the norm. This word highlights the value placed on humility and modesty, suggesting that true character and worth are not measured by external factors such as wealth or social standing. The range of usage for "tapeinos" is quite broad, encompassing various contexts including descriptions of people, their actions, and even abstract concepts like the heart. This versatility underscores the importance of humility in the biblical narrative, encouraging readers to reassess their values and priorities.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
8 total occurrences across the text
Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart; and you will find rest for your souls.
Luke 1:52He has put down princes from their thrones, and has exalted the lowly.
Romans 12:16Be of the same mind one toward another. Don’t set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Don’t be wise in your own conceits.
2 Corinthians 7:6Nevertheless, he who comforts the lowly, God, comforted us by the coming of Titus,
2 Corinthians 10:1Now I Paul, myself, entreat you by the humility and gentleness of Christ, I who in your presence am lowly among you, but being absent am bold toward you.
James 1:9But let the brother in humble circumstances glory in his high position;
James 4:6But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”
1 Peter 5:5Likewise, you younger ones, be subject to the elder. Yes, all of you clothe yourselves with humility, to subject yourselves to one another; for “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”