### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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.
TRV