### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **stephanóō**, represented by `{{G4737}}`, means **to adorn with an honorary wreath**, either literally or figuratively. It appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The term signifies the act of bestowing a crown as a symbol of honor, victory, or as a reward for a significant achievement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4737}}` is used to describe the supreme honor bestowed upon Jesus. For his suffering of death, Jesus was **crowned** with glory and honour [[Hebrews 2:9]]. This follows the statement that God **crownedst** him with glory and honour and set him over the works of His hands [[Hebrews 2:7]]. The term also establishes a principle for believers, using the analogy of an athlete: a competitor who strives for masteries is not **crowned** unless he strives lawfully [[2 Timothy 2:5]], connecting the reward to adherence to specific rules.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which one is crowned:
* `{{G118}}` **athléō** (to contend in the competitive games:--strive): This word is directly linked to receiving a crown. To be **crowned** `{{G4737}}`, one must first **strive** `{{G118}}` according to the rules [[2 Timothy 2:5]].
* `{{G3545}}` **nomímōs** (legitimately (specially, agreeably to the rules of the lists):--lawfully): This term defines the manner of striving required for a crown. The reward of being **crowned** `{{G4737}}` is conditional upon competing **lawfully** `{{G3545}}`, as seen in [[2 Timothy 2:5]].
* `{{G1391}}` **dóxa** (glory (as very apparent), in a wide application): This describes the nature of the crown itself. Jesus was crowned with **glory** and honour [[Hebrews 2:9]], indicating a reward of divine radiance and splendor.
* `{{G5092}}` **timḗ** (esteem (especially of the highest degree), or the dignity itself:--honour): Used alongside glory, this word specifies that the crown represents the highest form of dignity and value. Jesus was crowned with glory and **honour** [[Hebrews 2:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4737}}` is significant, highlighting key principles of reward and exaltation.
* **Honor Through Suffering:** The word establishes a direct link between suffering and subsequent honor. Jesus was **crowned** with glory and honour specifically "for the suffering of death" [[Hebrews 2:9]].
* **A Conditional Reward:** The act of being crowned is not automatic but is contingent upon proper conduct. As seen in [[2 Timothy 2:5]], the crown is only given to one who strives "lawfully," emphasizing that the reward follows adherence to divine principles.
* **Conferral of Glory and Dignity:** Being crowned is synonymous with being invested with "glory and honour" ([[Hebrews 2:7]], 2:9). It is an act that bestows a high status and visible dignity, as exemplified in the exaltation of Christ.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4737}}` moves beyond the simple image of a wreath to represent a profound spiritual concept. It is a cornerstone for understanding divine reward, illustrating that honor is bestowed as a result of righteous striving and faithful suffering. The word is used to articulate both the exaltation of Jesus Christ and the prize awaiting believers who compete according to the rules of faith.
TRV