The Greek word kléos, represented by G2811, translates to renown or glory. It is derived from a word meaning "to call," suggesting renown as if being called out or acclaimed. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, which makes its single usage highly significant.
The sole appearance of G2811 is in 1 Peter 2:20, where it is used to draw a sharp contrast. The verse asks, "For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently?" This establishes that there is no honor or renown in enduring punishment for wrongdoing. The verse then presents the true definition of glory in this context: patiently suffering for doing good is what is "acceptable with God." Therefore, kléos is specifically defined as the renown one gains from enduring unjust suffering for righteous actions.
Several related words in its single context clarify the meaning of G2811:
- G2852 kolaphízō (to rap with the fist:--buffet): This word describes the punishment one might receive. In the context of 1 Peter 2:20, being buffeted for one's own faults yields no glory.
- G5278 hypoménō (to undergo, i.e. bear (trials), have fortitude, persevere): This describes the act of patient endurance. Whether one receives kléos depends on the reason for this endurance. Patiently enduring is the central action connected to glory 1 Peter 2:20.
- G15 agathopoiéō (to be a well-doer): This establishes the moral prerequisite for true glory. Renown comes not just from suffering, but from suffering after you do well 1 Peter 2:20.
- G5485 cháris (graciousness... acceptable, benefit, favour, gift, grace): This is the result of righteous suffering. While enduring punishment for faults is meaningless, enduring suffering after doing good is acceptable with God 1 Peter 2:20.
The theological weight of G2811 is concentrated in its single, powerful application.
- Glory Redefined: It shifts the concept of glory away from worldly acclaim and towards a spiritual valuation. True renown is not earned through strength or success, but through patient endurance in the face of injustice for the sake of righteousness.
- The Condition of Renown: The verse firmly establishes that suffering in itself is not virtuous. The renown of G2811 is conditional upon one's innocence and prior good deeds (agathopoiéō). Suffering for one's "faults" is explicitly denied any glory 1 Peter 2:20.
- Divine Approval: The ultimate audience for this glory is God. Enduring unjustly is not for human praise but because it is "acceptable with God" 1 Peter 2:20, linking the concept of kléos directly to divine favor (cháris).
In summary, G2811 kléos offers a precise and profound definition of a specific type of glory. Though appearing only once, its context in 1 Peter 2:20 makes its meaning clear: it is the renown and honor recognized by God when a person patiently endures unjust suffering that has been inflicted upon them as a consequence of doing good. It is a glory born not of achievement, but of righteous perseverance.
TRV