παραδειγματίζω (paradeigmatizō)
paradeigmatizō
to disgrace
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb paradeigmatizō means to set someone or something out as a public example, specifically in a negative sense. It carries the weight of putting someone on display for shame, infamy, or disgrace. In the New Testament, this word appears only once, in Hebrews 6:6, where it describes those who have fallen away after experiencing the light.
Its root combines para ("beside") and deigmatizō ("to show" or "to exhibit"). While the related noun paradeigma can mean a positive model to follow, this verb flips the meaning toward exposure and humiliation. The sources note its use in classical Greek writers like Polybius and Plutarch for similar acts of public shaming, and it appears in the Septuagint with meanings ranging from setting an example to violent punishment.
Translators typically render it as "crucify again" or "hold up to shame," emphasizing the irreversible nature of the act. The image is not merely of criticism but of a formal, public rejection that leaves no room for restoration. This single usage underscores the gravity of apostasy in the author's argument.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word paradeigmatizō carries a heavy weight, describing a public exposure meant to bring shame or disgrace. In Hebrews 6:6, it paints a stark picture of those who have turned away from the light they once knew. The image is not one of gentle correction but of a formal, humiliating rejection that places the Son of God in a position of open dishonor.
For believers today, this passage serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of our commitment to Christ. It highlights the danger of treating sacred truths with indifference or walking away from the grace we have received. The text urges us to hold fast, recognizing that turning away is not a minor slip but a deliberate rejection of divine love.
While the warning is severe, it also points to the preciousness of what we have in Christ. We are called to remain steadfast, not out of fear alone, but because our faith is rooted in a relationship that demands loyalty and trust. May this understanding strengthen your resolve to walk faithfully with Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- subjecting [Him] to open shame.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- παραδειγματίζοντας.¶1×
Key Verses
-
Hebrews 6:6
and then fell away, it is impossible to renew them again to repentance; seeing they crucify the Son of God for themselves again, and put him to open shame.
This verse uses the word to describe the act of publicly dishonoring Christ after having known the truth, emphasizing the irreversible nature of such apostasy.