### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ἀμαράντινος (amarántinos)**, represented by `{{G262}}`, describes something that is **"amaranthine"** or **fadeless**. This specific term appears only **1 time** in 1 unique verse, yet its singular use carries profound theological weight. It is used to define the eternal nature of a reward promised to the faithful.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole instance of `{{G262}}` is found in a context of future reward and hope. In [[1 Peter 5:4]], believers are promised that when the "chief Shepherd shall appear," they will "receive a crown of glory that **fadeth not away**." The word directly qualifies the "crown of glory," establishing it not as a temporary symbol of honor, but as a permanent and incorruptible prize bestowed by Christ.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several key terms in its single verse of use illuminate its meaning:
* `{{G4735}}` **stéphanos** (a chaplet... crown): This is the object being described as fadeless. It represents a prize, a symbol of honor, or a badge of royalty given to believers [[1 Peter 5:4]].
* `{{G1391}}` **dóxa** (glory): This word defines the very essence of the crown. The reward is not merely a physical object but one that consists of and reflects divine **glory** [[1 Peter 5:4]].
* `{{G750}}` **archipoímēn** (a head shepherd): This title identifies the giver of the fadeless crown. The promise is secured by the authority of the **chief Shepherd**, who will bestow this honor upon His flock [[1 Peter 5:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G262}}` is concentrated in its powerful imagery of eternal reward.
* **The Incorruptible Reward:** The primary function of **amarántinos** is to contrast the believer's heavenly reward with earthly honors, which are temporary and decay. The "crown of glory" is explicitly defined as one that does not fade [[1 Peter 5:4]].
* **The Source of Honor:** This fadeless crown is not self-earned but is a gift believers will **receive** `{{G2865}}` when the **chief Shepherd** `{{G750}}` appears. This points to Christ as the source of all true and lasting honor [[1 Peter 5:4]].
* **A Future Hope:** The term is part of a future promise, something believers will obtain when Christ is made **manifest** `{{G5319}}`. It serves as a foundation for endurance and faithfulness in the present, pointing toward a guaranteed, eternal prize.
### Summary
In summary, **amarántinos** `{{G262}}` is a highly specific and impactful word. Despite appearing only once, it provides a crucial definition for the Christian's hope. It characterizes the "crown of glory" not as a fleeting victory, but as a permanent, unfading reality given by the **chief Shepherd** [[1 Peter 5:4]]. The term encapsulates the eternal nature of the honor that awaits the faithful.
TRV