περιφρονέω (periphroneō)
periphroneō
to despise
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb periphroneō means to look down on or despise someone. It combines a prefix meaning "around" with a root for "mind," suggesting a mindset that places itself above another person. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Titus 2:15, where Paul instructs church leaders not to permit anyone to despise them.
This word carries a sense of arrogant disregard. It is not merely ignoring someone, but actively holding them in low esteem through one's thoughts and attitude. The sources note its use in earlier Greek literature to describe examining something thoroughly, but in the biblical context, it shifts to an attitude of contempt. Paul’s warning highlights that respect for authority is tied to faithful teaching.
Translators typically render this word as "despise" or "set at naught." The emphasis is on the internal attitude of superiority that leads to external disrespect. In a community built on mutual submission, such an attitude undermines the unity Paul seeks to foster among believers.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
It is a heavy burden to carry the responsibility of teaching God’s Word, especially when others might not listen or respect your position. The word periphroneō describes a specific kind of arrogance—a mindset that looks down on another person with contempt. This is not just simple disagreement; it is an internal attitude of superiority that leads to external disrespect. Paul knew that such attitudes could quietly undermine the unity and authority needed for healthy church life.
For those in leadership, this verse offers a realistic view of ministry. You will face moments where your message is rejected or your person is undervalued. The instruction is not to demand honor through force, but to speak with clarity and integrity so that no one has a valid reason to look down on you. It reminds us that our authority comes from the truth we proclaim, not our own status.
For those receiving leadership, this word serves as a gentle check against pride or dismissiveness. We are called to respect those who guide us, not because they are perfect, but because of the trust God places in their role. When we choose to honor rather than despise, we protect the community’s unity and allow God’s truth to take root without unnecessary resistance.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- should despise.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- περιφρονείτω.¶1×
Key Verses
-
Titus 2:15
Say these things and exhort and reprove with all authority. Let no one despise you.
This is the only New Testament occurrence of the word, where Paul explicitly commands that no one should hold a contemptuous attitude toward his teaching authority.