from τιμή; valuable, i.e. (objectively) costly, or (subjectively) honored, esteemed, or (figuratively) beloved:--dear, honourable, (more, most) precious, had in reputation.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **tímios**, represented by `{{G5093}}`, signifies something that is **valuable**. It appears 14 times across 13 unique verses in the Bible. The term’s application ranges from the objectively costly, like gemstones, to the subjectively honored or esteemed, and is used figuratively to describe what is beloved or dear.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5093}}` is used to describe both material and spiritual worth. In a literal sense, it refers to items of high market value, such as **precious** stones [[1 Corinthians 3:12]], pearls [[Revelation 17:4]], and even **most precious** wood [[Revelation 18:12]], which are listed as merchandise of Babylon the Great. Figuratively, the term elevates to describe concepts of immense spiritual value. The blood of Christ is called **precious** [[1 Peter 1:19]], and a believer’s tested faith is described as "much more **precious** than of gold" [[1 Peter 1:7]]. It also denotes honor and reputation, as marriage is described as **honourable** [[Hebrews 13:4]], and Gamaliel was a man "had in reputation" [[Acts 5:34]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of value and honor:
* `{{G5092}}` **timḗ** (a value... esteem... honour, precious, price, some): As the root word of tímios, it directly refers to the price or honor assigned to something. It is used alongside `{{G5093}}` to describe the outcome of a tested faith, which is found unto praise, **honour**, and glory [[1 Peter 1:7]].
* `{{G3037}}` **líthos** (a stone (literally or figuratively)): This word is frequently paired with `{{G5093}}` to describe **precious** stones, which serve as materials for both worldly adornment [[Revelation 17:4]] and the foundations of the New Jerusalem [[Revelation 21:19]].
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis** (persuasion, i.e. credence... faith, fidelity): The value of a believer's **faith** is highlighted by being described as more **precious** than gold [[1 Peter 1:7]].
* `{{G1862}}` **epángelma** (a self-committal (by assurance of conferring some good)): God's promises are described as "exceeding great and **precious**," signifying their immense worth and reliability [[2 Peter 1:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5093}}` is significant, highlighting what God considers to be of true and lasting worth.
* **The Value of Redemption:** The word underscores the infinite cost of salvation, accomplished not with corruptible things but with the **precious** blood of Christ [[1 Peter 1:19]].
* **The Worth of Enduring Faith:** A believer's faith, when tried by fire, is proven to be "more **precious** than of gold," resulting in praise, honour, and glory at Christ's appearing [[1 Peter 1:7]].
* **The Nature of God's Gifts:** God gives believers "exceeding great and **precious** promises" so that they might become partakers of the divine nature, escaping the world's corruption [[2 Peter 1:4]].
* **The Sanctity of Marriage:** The institution of marriage is to be held as **honourable** among all, reflecting its divinely appointed value [[Hebrews 13:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5093}}` is a word that bridges the gap between material cost and spiritual value. While it can denote expensive earthly goods, its most profound use is in describing the priceless nature of Christ's sacrifice, the believer's faith, and the promises of God. It teaches that what is truly **precious** is not defined by worldly markets but by divine estimation, honor, and love.
TRV