The Greek word plégma, represented by G4117, refers to a plait (of hair) or broidered hair. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its significance comes from its use as a specific example of external adornment that is contrasted with the more valuable qualities of inner character and modesty.
The single use of G4117 is found in 1 Timothy 2:9. In this passage, women are instructed to adorn G2885 themselves with modest G2887 apparel, accompanied by shamefacedness G127 and sobriety G4997. The instruction then specifies what to avoid, listing broided hair G4117 alongside gold G5557, pearls G3135, and costly G4185 array G2441. Here, plégma represents an elaborate and expensive outward appearance that detracts from a focus on godly character.
Several related words help frame the context and meaning of G4117:
- G2885 kosméō (to put in proper order, i.e. decorate...:--adorn, garnish, trim): This word sets the theme of the passage. The instruction is not against adornment itself, but about the proper way for women to adorn themselves, favoring inner virtues over outward show 1 Timothy 2:9.
- G127 aidṓs (bashfulness, i.e. (towards men), modesty or (towards God) awe:--reverence, shamefacedness): This term describes the preferred inner disposition that should be a person's true adornment, standing in direct contrast to the external focus symbolized by plégma 1 Timothy 2:9.
- G4185 polytelḗs (extremely expensive:--costly, very precious, of great price): Paired with plégma in the list of what to avoid, this word highlights that the concern is with elaborate and costly displays of wealth, rather than simple appearance 1 Timothy 2:9.
The theological weight of G4117 is centered on the biblical theme of inner versus outer beauty.
- A Call to Modesty: G4117 serves as a tangible example of outward decoration that is contrasted with the preferred adornment of modest G2887 apparel and a spirit of shamefacedness G127 1 Timothy 2:9.
- Emphasis on Inner Virtues: The rejection of elaborate hairstyles like plégma is immediately followed by a call for sobriety G4997, shifting the focus from external appearance to the development of a sound mind and self-control 1 Timothy 2:9.
- Critique of Worldly Values: By listing broided hair alongside gold G5557, pearls G3135, and costly G4185 array G2441, the passage uses G4117 to caution against an attachment to wealth and status, redirecting believers toward what is of great price in God's sight 1 Peter 3:4.
In summary, while plégma G4117 is a rare word, its singular appearance in scripture is highly significant. It functions as a specific symbol for elaborate, costly, and worldly adornment. Its use in 1 Timothy 2:9 serves to draw a clear line between a focus on external decoration and the far more important cultivation of the inner virtues of modesty, sobriety, and a godly character.
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