ταπεινόφρων (tapeinophrōn)
tapeinophrōn
humble-minded
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The rare Greek word tapeinophrōn describes a person who is humble-minded or lowly in spirit. It combines two elements: tapeinos, meaning low or humble, and phrōn, relating to the mind or disposition. This compound term appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in 1 Peter 3:8.
In this single occurrence, Peter uses it to urge believers to live in harmony with one another by adopting a mindset that is free from pride. The sources note that while the word can carry a negative connotation of being abject or lowly in some classical contexts, here it serves as a positive virtue essential for Christian community life.
Its brevity in Scripture highlights its specific function as a character trait rather than a complex theological concept. Translators typically render it simply as "humble-minded" to preserve the direct connection between one’s inner attitude and outward conduct.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word tapeinophrōn invites us to examine the posture of our hearts toward others. It combines ideas of being lowly with having a specific mindset. In 1 Peter 3:8, this trait is listed alongside compassion and courtesy as essential for living in harmony. It suggests that true unity begins when we lower our own pride to make space for those around us.
This does not mean thinking less of yourself, but rather thinking of yourself less. It is an active choice to value others above your own preferences or rightness. When conflicts arise, this humble-mindedness allows you to listen before reacting and to seek peace before seeking victory.
May you find freedom in letting go of the need to be right. As you practice this gentle spirit, relationships become easier and your witness to Christ becomes clearer. Let this simple virtue guide your interactions today.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- humble,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ταπεινόφρονες,1×
Key Verses
-
I Peter 3:8
Finally, all of you be like-minded, compassionate, loving as brothers, tenderhearted, courteous,
Peter places tapeinophrōn as a foundational attitude required for believers to live in harmony and show courtesy to one another.