σωφρονίζω (sōphronizō)
sōphronizō
to train
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb sōphronizō means to bring someone back to a sound mind or self-control. It implies an active process of training or disciplining, often to correct behavior or restore balance. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Titus 2:4, where older women are urged to train younger women.
Its root combines sōs ("safe") and phrēn ("mind"), suggesting a state of mental wholeness or sobriety. The word carries the sense of curbing excesses and holding individuals accountable to their duties. Translators often render it as "train" or "discipline," highlighting its formative rather than punitive nature.
This single usage underscores the importance of intergenerational mentorship in early Christian communities. The training involves practical wisdom and moral guidance, aiming to foster responsible living within the family and church context.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word sōphronizō combines ideas of safety and soundness of mind. It describes the careful work of guiding someone toward self-control and balanced living. In Titus 2:4, older women are encouraged to train younger wives in practical love for their families. This is not about harsh correction but about nurturing wisdom through example and instruction.
For your daily life, this reminds us that growth often happens through patient mentorship. We learn to manage our emotions and duties by observing those who have walked the path before us. It invites you to both receive guidance and offer it with gentleness. True stability comes from learning to love well in everyday moments.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- they may train1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- σωφρονίζωσιν1×
Key Verses
-
Titus 2:4
that they may train the young wives to love their husbands, to love their children,
This verse uniquely applies the word to intergenerational mentorship, showing how older women actively cultivate self-control and loving conduct in younger wives.