ἔνδοξος (endoxos)
endoxos
honored
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective endoxos describes something held in high honor or possessing great repute. In the New Testament, it conveys a sense of splendor and dignity that commands respect. Paul uses this term to describe the church in Ephesians as a community made glorious, free from stain or wrinkle (Ephesians 5:27). This usage points to a spiritual perfection and radiant beauty that reflects God’s own character.
The word combines a prefix meaning "in" with a root for "glory" or "report." Its presence in Luke highlights both earthly and heavenly honor. Jesus contrasts the splendid clothing worn by kings with the simple attire of those who seek God’s kingdom (Luke 7:25). Later, he notes that even the most ordinary acts of worship can bring glory to God when received with faith (Luke 13:17). The term thus bridges human recognition and divine magnificence.
Translators often render endoxos as "glorious" or "honored," depending on context. When applied to people, it suggests a reputation built on integrity and virtue. When applied to the church or God’s work, it emphasizes an inherent splendor that surpasses worldly standards. This dual focus reminds readers that true honor comes from alignment with divine purposes rather than human acclaim.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word endoxos points to a deep, lasting honor that comes from God rather than human applause. In Ephesians 5:27, Paul describes the church as presented to Christ in glory, free from flaw. This image offers comfort when we feel inadequate or overlooked by the world. It reminds us that our true worth is secured by Christ’s work, not our own performance.
Jesus used this concept in Luke 7:25 to contrast earthly luxury with spiritual value. He noted that those who wear soft clothing and live delicately are found in kings’ courts, yet they miss the deeper honor of God’s kingdom. True dignity is not found in status or wealth, but in a life aligned with divine purpose.
This understanding invites us to rest in God’s acceptance. We do not need to chase recognition or defend our reputation. Instead, we can focus on growing in holiness and love, trusting that God sees our hearts and counts us as honored in His sight.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- splendid1×
- in glory1×
- honored1×
- glorious things1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἔνδοξον1×
- ἔνδοξοι1×
- ἐνδόξῳ1×
- ἐνδόξοις1×
Key Verses
-
Ephesians 5:27
that he might present the assembly to himself gloriously, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without defect.
This verse applies endoxos to the church, showing that Christ presents believers as gloriously holy, emphasizing spiritual perfection over worldly status.
-
Luke 7:25
But what did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft clothing? Behold, those who are gorgeously dressed and live delicately are in kings’ courts.
Jesus contrasts those in kings’ courts with the kingdom of God, using the idea of honor to redirect focus from earthly luxury to spiritual reality.