from the base of δοκέω; glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective):--dignity, glory(-ious), honour, praise, worship.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dóxa**, represented by `{{G1391}}`, is a central term for **glory**. It appears 168 times across 151 unique verses, indicating its wide application. Based on the term δοκέω, it signifies something very apparent and can refer to **glory** in a literal or figurative sense, encompassing concepts such as dignity, honour, praise, and worship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1391}}` is used to describe the very nature and presence of God. The Father is called "the Father of **glory**" [[Ephesians 1:17]], and Jesus Christ is described as "the brightness of his **glory**, and the express image of his person" [[Hebrews 1:3]]. This divine **glory** was made visible in the person of Christ, as John states, "we beheld his **glory**, the **glory** as of the only begotten of the Father" [[John 1:14]]. For believers, `{{G1391}}` is the substance of their future hope, with scripture speaking of "Christ in you, the hope of **glory**" [[Colossians 1:27]]. It is also something to be given to God in worship, as He is worthy to receive "**glory** and honour and power" [[Revelation 4:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words broaden the understanding of **glory** and its associations:
* `{{G1392}}` **doxázō** (to render (or esteem) glorious): This is the verb form of **glory**, describing the act of giving or making glorious. It is used in contexts where believers are to **glorify** God in their bodies [[1 Corinthians 6:20]].
* `{{G5092}}` **timḗ** (honour, precious, price, some): Often paired with **glory**, this word denotes esteem and value. God the Father gives both **honour** and **glory** to the Son [[2 Peter 1:17]], and both are ascribed to God in worship [[Revelation 4:11]].
* `{{G1411}}` **dýnamis** (power, strength, might): This term for power or might is frequently connected with **glory**, particularly in doxologies. Believers are strengthened "according to his glorious **power**" [[Colossians 1:11]], and God's kingdom is described as having "the **power**, and the **glory**" [[Matthew 6:13]].
* `{{G1504}}` **eikṓn** (a likeness, i.e. (literally) statue, profile, or (figuratively) representation, resemblance): This word for **image** is linked to the transformative aspect of **glory**. Believers are changed into the same **image** from **glory** to **glory** [[2 Corinthians 3:18]], and Christ is the **image** of God, whose **glorious** gospel shines forth [[2 Corinthians 4:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1391}}` is significant, touching on core doctrines:
* **Divine Essence and Manifestation:** **Glory** is an intrinsic attribute of God, who is the "Father of **glory**" [[Ephesians 1:17]]. This **glory** was uniquely revealed in Jesus Christ, who is its "brightness" [[Hebrews 1:3]]. All humanity has sinned and fallen short of this divine standard [[Romans 3:23]].
* **Christ as the Hope of Glory:** For believers, the indwelling Christ is the very "hope of **glory**" [[Colossians 1:27]]. The present sufferings are considered unworthy to be compared with the **glory** that will be revealed in them [[Romans 8:18]].
* **Transformation and Sanctification:** The **glory** of the Lord is a transforming power. Beholding it changes believers "into the same image from **glory** to **glory**" [[2 Corinthians 3:18]]. This process is fueled by the "riches of his **glory**" [[Ephesians 3:16]].
* **The Goal of Creation and Worship:** All actions are to be directed toward the **glory** of God [[1 Corinthians 10:31]]. Ascribing **glory**, honour, and power to God is a central activity of worship in heaven [[Revelation 19:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1391}}` is more than a simple reference to brightness or honor. It is a foundational concept representing the very worth, weight, and visible splendor of God. It is perfectly manifested in Christ, serves as the ultimate hope for believers, and is the ultimate purpose to which all creation and worship are directed. The word illustrates a progression from the **glory** inherent in God to the **glory** revealed in Christ, and finally to the **glory** shared with the saints for eternity.
TRV