ἐντρέπω (entrepō)
entrepō
to cause shame
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 9 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek verb entrepō describes the act of putting someone to shame or causing them to feel ashamed. Its literal sense involves turning around, which metaphorically extends to reversing a person’s standing or confidence. In the New Testament, it frequently appears in contexts where authority figures address disobedience or lack of respect, aiming to provoke a change in behavior through embarrassment rather than physical punishment.
This word carries significant weight in pastoral instructions. For instance, Paul uses it when advising Timothy not to rebuke older men harshly but to appeal to their sense of honor (1 Timothy 5:1). Similarly, Jesus references the owner of the vineyard who feared his sons would be put to shame if they killed the heir (Luke 20:13). The term implies a social or moral consequence that leads to repentance or reverence.
Translators often render entrepō as "put to shame" or "revere," depending on whether the subject is acting against someone or showing respect. In passive forms, it can mean being ashamed of one’s actions. The word highlights the power of social accountability in early Christian communities, where maintaining honor and avoiding disgrace were central to ethical living.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word entrepō carries a gentle but firm weight in Scripture, often translated as showing respect or causing shame. It reminds us that our words carry power to either build up or break down those around us. When Paul advises Timothy on how to treat older men, he uses this concept not to demand harsh correction, but to appeal to their sense of honor. This approach preserves dignity while encouraging right behavior.
In our daily lives, we are called to speak in a way that reflects wisdom and grace. Whether dealing with critics or loved ones, the goal is often restoration rather than defeat. By choosing words that honor others, we reflect the character of Christ, who treated people with profound respect even when they failed Him. This practice fosters an environment where repentance and growth can naturally occur.
Ultimately, this word invites us to consider the impact of our speech. It challenges us to lead with humility and love, ensuring that our interactions leave others feeling valued rather than diminished. In doing so, we create spaces for healing and mutual understanding within our communities.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 9 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- we were respecting [them];1×
- they will respect.1×
- shaming1×
- respecting.1×
- respect,1×
- may be ashamed1×
- he may be ashamed;1×
- They will respect1×
- They will have respect for1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐντραπήσονται2×
- ἐντρέπων1×
- ἐντρέπομαι,1×
- ἐντρεπόμενος.1×
- ἐντραπῇ·1×
- ἐντραπῇ1×
- ἐντραπήσονται.1×
- ἐνετρεπόμεθα·1×
Key Verses
-
I Corinthians 4:14
I don’t write these things to shame you, but to admonish you as my beloved children.
Paul clarifies that his serious instructions are meant to guide beloved children, not to humiliate them.
-
II Thessalonians 3:14
If any man doesn’t obey our word in this letter, note that man and have no company with him, to the end that he may be ashamed.
The purpose of distancing from disobedient members is specifically so they might feel shame and return to obedience.
-
Titus 2:8
and soundness of speech that can’t be condemned, that he who opposes you may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say about us.
Sound speech leaves opponents with no valid reason to accuse believers, thereby removing grounds for shame.
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Luke 20:13
The lord of the vineyard said, ‘What shall I do? I will send my beloved son. It may be that seeing him, they will respect him.’
The vineyard owner hopes sending his son will compel the tenants to show him the respect due to an heir.