from an apparently primary (to twine or wreathe); a chaplet (as a badge of royalty, a prize in the public games or a symbol of honor generally; but more conspicuous and elaborate than the simple fillet, διάδημα), literally or figuratively:--crown.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **stéphanos**, represented by `{{G4735}}`, refers to a **crown** or chaplet. It appears **18 times** across **18 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a word meaning to twine or wreathe, it signifies a badge of royalty, a prize from the public games, or a general symbol of honor, both literally and figuratively.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4735}}` is used in several distinct contexts. It is famously used to describe the literal **crown** of **thorns** `{{G173}}` that was **platted** `{{G4120}}` and placed on Jesus' head as an act of mockery ([[Matthew 27:29]], [[John 19:2]]). Figuratively, it represents the reward promised to the faithful. Believers who **endure** `{{G5278}}` temptation are promised a **crown** of **life** `{{G2222}}` ([[James 1:12]], [[Revelation 2:10]]). It is also described as a **crown** of **righteousness** `{{G1343}}` [[2 Timothy 4:8]] and a **crown** of **glory** `{{G1391}}` [[1 Peter 5:4]]. The apostle Paul also refers to fellow believers as his **joy** `{{G5479}}` and **crown** `{{G4735}}`, a symbol of honor and rejoicing ([[Philippians 4:1]], [[1 Thessalonians 2:19]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the meaning of **stéphanos**:
* `{{G4120}}` **plékō** (to twine or braid): This verb describes the physical act of creating the **crown** of **thorns** `{{G173}}`, emphasizing its painful and mocking construction [[Matthew 27:29]].
* `{{G75}}` **agōnízomai** (to struggle, to compete for a prize): This term connects the **crown** to the idea of a prize won through intense effort, as when an athlete **is temperate** `{{G1467}}` to obtain a **corruptible** `{{G5349}}` **crown** [[1 Corinthians 9:25]].
* `{{G862}}` **áphthartos** (incorruptible): This word contrasts the perishable earthly prize with the believer's reward, which is an **incorruptible** `{{G862}}` **crown** [[1 Corinthians 9:25]].
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (to give): This highlights that the **crown** is not always earned by human effort alone, but is often **given** as a gift of authority or reward, as seen when a **crown** was **given** to the rider on the white horse [[Revelation 6:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4735}}` is seen in its powerful and contrasting symbolism.
* **Crown of Humiliation:** The most poignant literal example is the **crown** of **thorns** `{{G174}}`, a symbol of the immense suffering and mockery Christ endured on behalf of humanity ([[Mark 15:17]], [[John 19:5]]).
* **Crown of Eternal Reward:** As a prize for faithfulness, the **crown** represents God's promise to believers. It is called the **crown** of **life** `{{G2222}}` for those who are **faithful** `{{G4103}}` unto death [[Revelation 2:10]], the **crown** of **righteousness** `{{G1343}}` for those who love Christ's **appearing** `{{G2015}}` [[2 Timothy 4:8]], and the **incorruptible** `{{G862}}` **crown** for those who demonstrate self-restraint [[1 Corinthians 9:25]].
* **Crown of Honor and Worship:** In Revelation, the twenty-four elders wear **crowns** of **gold** `{{G5552}}` signifying their honored status, yet they **cast** `{{G906}}` their **crowns** `{{G4735}}` before God's throne in an ultimate act of worship [[Revelation 4:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4735}}` is a multifaceted word that extends far beyond a simple head covering. It powerfully represents the duality of the Christian experience: from the literal, painful **crown** of suffering worn by Christ to the glorious, **incorruptible** `{{G862}}` **crown** promised as an eternal reward to the faithful. It serves as a symbol of honor, victory, authority, and the ultimate prize that is **laid up** `{{G606}}` for those who persevere in faith.
TRV