### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **philóteknos**, represented by `{{G5388}}`, is a specific term meaning to be **fond of one's children**. It appears just **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible. Its base definition, derived from φίλος and τέκνον, describes a distinctly maternal affection, translated as "love their children."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G5388}}` is found in an instruction within the book of Titus. It is presented as a quality that older women are to instill in younger women. In [[Titus 2:4]], the command "to **love their children**" is listed immediately after the command "to love their husbands," positioning this specific affection as a core component of a disciplined and godly life for women in the early church.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only biblical context help clarify its meaning:
* `{{G4994}}` **sōphronízō** (to make of sound mind, i.e. (figuratively) to discipline or correct): This is the action that leads to the desired behaviors, indicating that being `philóteknos` is a trait developed through teaching and discipline.
* `{{G5362}}` **phílandros** (fond of man, i.e. affectionate as a wife): This term for loving one's husband appears directly alongside `{{G5388}}` in [[Titus 2:4]], creating a parallel structure of ordered, godly affection within the family.
* `{{G3501}}` **néos** (new, i.e. (of persons) youthful): This word identifies the "young women" who are the recipients of this teaching [[Titus 2:4]], highlighting a process of discipleship between generations.
* `{{G2443}}` **hína** (in order that): This word introduces the purpose of the teaching, showing that these virtues are taught to achieve a specific, godly outcome [[Titus 2:4]].
* `{{G1511}}` **eînai** (to exist): Used as "to be," this word links the teaching to the state of being that the young women should embody, such as "to **be** sober" and "to **be**" loving toward their families [[Titus 2:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5388}}` is derived entirely from its instructive context.
* **A Taught Virtue:** Its appearance in [[Titus 2:4]] shows that this maternal love is not simply assumed as a natural instinct but is presented as a virtue to be actively taught and learned as part of Christian discipleship.
* **Component of a Disciplined Life:** Being `philóteknos` is listed among other characteristics of a sound mind, such as being sober and loving one's husband, framing it as an essential element of a well-ordered spiritual character.
* **Purposeful Affection:** The context of [[Titus 2:4]] suggests that this familial love serves a greater purpose, contributing to the health and witness of the entire faith community.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G5388}}` is a rare word in scripture, its single appearance is significant. It defines the love for one's children not merely as an emotion, but as a disciplined and taught characteristic essential to a godly life. Its placement in [[Titus 2:4]] frames it as a cornerstone of Christian conduct for women, parallel in importance to loving their husbands and living with a sound mind.
TRV