ἀμάραντος (amarantos)
amarantos
unfading
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective amarantos describes something that does not fade or perish, carrying the sense of being unfading or enduring. Its meaning is rooted in a negative prefix combined with a verb for withering, literally defining it as "not fading." This linguistic construction highlights permanence and resilience against decay.
In Scripture, this word appears only once, in 1 Peter 1:4, where it modifies the inheritance reserved for believers. The text describes this inheritance as imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, emphasizing its eternal security compared to earthly treasures that wither. The association with the "amaranth" flower, known for retaining its color long after picking, reinforces the image of lasting beauty and vitality.
Translators typically render amarantos as "unfading" or "imperishable," capturing the contrast between temporary worldly goods and the eternal nature of God’s promises. The term underscores the theological weight of a hope that remains intact regardless of external circumstances, offering a stable foundation for faith.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Life often feels like a series of fading moments. The beauty of spring blooms quickly turns to winter bareness. Careers peak and then plateau. Even our own strength wanes with time. We learn early that most good things in this world are temporary, subject to decay and loss.
This word offers a different perspective on what lies ahead. It describes an inheritance that simply does not fade away. Unlike earthly treasures that rust or thieves break in to steal, this reserve is kept safe in heaven. It remains undefiled and incorruptible, untouched by the wear and tear of time.
Knowing this can bring deep peace when current circumstances feel unstable. Your hope is anchored in something permanent. The future God has prepared for you does not wither. This certainty allows you to face today’s challenges with a steady heart, knowing the best is still to come.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- unfading1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀμάραντον1×