The Greek word tapeinós, represented by G5011, describes a state of being depressed or humiliated, whether in circumstances or in disposition. Its meanings include base, cast down, humble, of low degree, and lowly. It appears 8 times across 8 unique verses, indicating its specific application in contexts of humility and social or spiritual standing.
In scripture, G5011 is used to illustrate a range of conditions. It describes the personal character of Christ, who is "meek and lowly in heart" Matthew 11:29. The term also denotes a state of affliction, as God is the one "that comforteth those that are cast down" 2 Corinthians 7:6. In a social context, it refers to those of a lower station, whom God lifts up, as when He "exalted them of low degree" Luke 1:52. Crucially, it stands in direct opposition to pride, with scripture stating that God "giveth grace unto the humble" (James 4:6, 1 Peter 5:5).
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the concept of humility:
- G5012 tapeinophrosýnē (humbleness of mind, humility): This noun form specifies the internal mindset of humility. Believers are instructed to be clothed with humility 1 Peter 5:5.
- G5244 hyperḗphanos (proud): This term is the direct antonym of humble. In both James and Peter, it is stated that God resists the proud while giving grace to the humble (James 4:6, 1 Peter 5:5).
- G5312 hypsóō (exalt, lift up): This verb describes God's response to the humble. Mary proclaims that God has exalted "them of low degree" Luke 1:52, establishing a pattern of divine reversal.
- G4235 prâios (meek): This word, meaning gentle or humble, is used alongside lowly by Jesus to describe his own nature, linking the two concepts as core to his character Matthew 11:29.
The theological significance of G5011 is profound, highlighting a core principle of God's kingdom.
- The Divine Reversal: A consistent theme is that God opposes the proud and elevates the humble. He puts down the mighty from their seats and has "exalted them of low degree" Luke 1:52. The "brother of low degree" is to rejoice in being exalted James 1:9.
- A Prerequisite for Grace: Humility is the posture required to receive divine grace. The explicit promise that "God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble" appears in both James 4:6 and 1 Peter 5:5.
- The Character of Christ: The ultimate example of humility is Christ himself. His declaration of being "meek and lowly in heart" Matthew 11:29 establishes humility not as a weakness, but as a divine virtue.
- The Object of God's Comfort: The word also describes those who are emotionally or circumstantially "cast down," identifying God as the one who specifically comforts this group 2 Corinthians 7:6.
In summary, G5011 is more than a descriptor of low social status; it is a key theological concept. It defines a state of being, both in circumstance and in heart, that is opposite to pride. This quality is embodied by Christ, is the condition for receiving God's grace and comfort, and is the position from which God exalts individuals according to His own values.
TRV