ἀκροθίνιον (akrothinion)
akrothinion
fine spoils
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The rare noun akrothinion literally means "the top of a heap," referring to the very best portion set aside from a larger collection. In classical Greek, it often described the choicest spoils taken in war, which warriors would offer to their gods as a token of gratitude and honor. This sense of selecting the premium part of a victory is central to its meaning.
In the New Testament, the word appears only once, in Hebrews 7:4. The author uses it to describe the "tenth" that Abraham gave to Melchizedek. By calling these goods akrothinion, the text emphasizes that Abraham did not give a random sample or leftovers, but rather the finest and most valuable part of his spoils. This highlights the supreme honor Abraham paid to the priest-king.
The term’s etymology links it to the word for "top" or "extremity," reinforcing the idea of priority and excellence. Translators often render it as "choicest parts" or "precious things" to capture this nuance of quality rather than just quantity. The usage underscores a theological point about giving the best to God, reflecting a heart that values divine service above material gain.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word akrothinion points to something very specific: the finest portion, the top tier of what one has acquired. In Hebrews 7:4, Abraham gives Melchizedek a tenth not from the ordinary leftovers, but from the choicest spoils of war. This detail matters because it shows that true honor involves giving your best, not just any part of your resources.
When we look at our own lives, this word invites us to consider what we offer God. It is easy to give what is left over after our other needs are met. However, the example of Abraham suggests a different path. He recognized the greatness of the priest he served by offering the premium part of his victory.
This concept encourages a heart that values spiritual priorities above material accumulation. It reminds us that giving is not merely a transaction but an act of reverence. By setting aside the best, we acknowledge that God deserves our highest quality time, energy, and gifts. This practice shifts our focus from what we keep to who we serve.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- best spoils1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀκροθινίων1×
Key Verses
-
Hebrews 7:4
Now consider how great this man was, to whom even Abraham the patriarch gave a tenth out of the best plunder.
The term highlights that Abraham did not give random leftovers but the finest part of his plunder, emphasizing the supreme honor he paid to Melchizedek.