κρείσσων (kreissōn)
kreissōn
greater
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 18 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The word kreissōn is the comparative form meaning "better" or "greater." It appears in eighteen verses, with a heavy concentration in Hebrews, alongside occurrences in First Corinthians and Philippians. The term carries two distinct shades of meaning depending on context: it can describe practical advantage or usefulness, or it can denote superior quality and excellence.
In passages like Philippians 1:23, where Paul desires to depart and be with Christ, the word highlights a clear advantage in terms of benefit. Conversely, Hebrews uses it frequently to establish superiority, such as when Jesus is shown to be better than the angels (Hebrews 1:4) or when the new covenant is described as superior to the old (Hebrews 8:6). This dual usage allows the text to argue both for the practical value of a choice and its inherent moral worth.
Translators typically render this word simply as "better," though the Greek implies a comparative strength. The sources note that it often functions before an infinitive, such as in First Corinthians 7:9, where it is "better" to marry than to burn with passion. This structural pattern emphasizes that one option holds more weight or value than another.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word kreissōn invites us to look beyond immediate comfort toward lasting value. In Philippians, Paul describes being with Christ as "far better" than earthly life, showing that spiritual reality outweighs temporary hardship. This perspective helps us weigh our daily choices against eternal significance.
We often face decisions where the right path feels difficult. Scripture reminds us that enduring trials for righteousness is better than avoiding them through compromise. It encourages a hope that looks past present struggles to a future secured by God’s promises, offering peace in uncertain times.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 18 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- better6×
- of a better3×
- superior2×
- a better2×
- with better1×
- to a better [one]1×
- better;1×
- better thing1×
- [It is] better1×
- Better1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- κρείττονος5×
- κρεῖττον4×
- κρεῖσσον2×
- κρείττοσιν2×
- κρεῖττόν1×
- κρεῖσσον·1×
- κρείττων1×
- κρείττονός1×
- κρείττονα1×
- κρείσσονα1×
Key Verses
-
Philippians 1:23
But I am hard pressed between the two, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.
Paul uses this term to express that union with Christ surpasses all earthly existence, highlighting the supreme value of spiritual communion.
-
Hebrews 7:22
By so much, Jesus has become the guarantee of a better covenant.
The author contrasts Jesus with previous guarantees, establishing Him as the superior foundation for a covenant that truly endures.
-
I Peter 3:17
For it is better, if it is God’s will, that you suffer for doing what is right than for doing evil.
Peter argues that suffering for doing good holds greater moral weight and divine favor than escaping hardship through wrongdoing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does kreissōn mean in the Bible?
How is kreissōn different from agathos?
Why does Hebrews use this word so often?
Every Occurrence (18 verses across 5 books)
I Corinthians 3 verses
But if they don’t have self-control, let them marry. For it’s better to marry than to burn with passion.
I Corinthians 7:38So then both he who gives his own virgin in marriage does well, and he who doesn’t give her in marriage does better.
I Corinthians 11:17But in giving you this command I don’t praise you, because you come together not for the better but for the worse.