The Greek word átimos, represented by G820, is formed from a negative particle and the word for honor, timē. It denotes being unhonoured, dishonoured, or despised. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible.
In scripture, G820 is used to describe a state of rejection or low esteem. Jesus employs the term when stating that a prophet G4396 is not without honour G820 except in his own country and house G3614 (Matthew 13:57; Mark 6:4). The Apostle Paul also uses it to contrast the apostles with the Corinthian believers, stating, "we G2249 are despised G820" while they are honourable G1741 1 Corinthians 4:10. This highlights a theme of godly service involving worldly dishonor. Furthermore, Paul uses the word to describe parts of the body G4983 that are considered less honourable G820, which are paradoxically given greater care 1 Corinthians 12:23.
Several related words provide a fuller understanding of honor and dishonor:
- G5092 timḗ (honour, precious, price, some): This is the root word from which átimos is derived. It signifies value, esteem, or dignity. In 1 Corinthians 12:23, Paul contrasts the less honourable G820 parts with those that receive more abundant honour G5092.
- G1741 éndoxos (in glory, i.e. splendid, (figuratively) noble): As a direct antonym, this word means to be in glory or noble. It is used in 1 Corinthians 4:10 to describe the Corinthians' status in contrast to the apostles who are despised G820.
- G4396 prophḗtēs (a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet): This word is contextually linked, as Jesus states that a prophet G4396 is not without honour G820 save among his own people (Matthew 13:57; Mark 6:4).
The concept of G820 carries significant theological weight, particularly in its redefinition of worldly values.
- The Rejection of God's Servants: The word describes the reception that God's messengers can expect from the world. Jesus identifies himself with the prophet G4396 who is without honour G820 among his own, establishing a pattern of rejection for those who speak for God Matthew 13:57.
- Paradox of Kingdom Honor: Paul uses the contrast between being honourable G1741 and despised G820 to teach that the path of following Christ G5547 often involves worldly shame and weakness. Those who appear as fools G3474 and weak G772 are the very instruments of God's power 1 Corinthians 4:10.
- Value within the Body: In the church, what might be considered less honourable G820 is to be treated with greater dignity. This principle illustrates that God's valuation of individuals is the reverse of the world's, giving importance to every member of the body G4983 of Christ 1 Corinthians 12:23.
In summary, G820 moves beyond a simple definition of dishonor. It is a key term for understanding the biblical paradox where what is despised by the world is chosen and valued by God. It marks the experience of God's faithful servants, from prophets to apostles, and instructs the church to adopt God's system of honor, esteeming every member as essential.
TRV