Original Word: σεμνός
Part of Speech: Adjective
Transliteration: semnos
Pronunciation: sem-nos'
Phonetic Spelling: (sem-nos')
Definition: venerable, honorable, grave, serious, dignified.
Meaning: The adjective σεμνός conveys the sense of being honorable, dignified, or worthy of respect. It often describes a quality of character that is noble and venerable.

Word Origin: Derived from the Greek verb σέβομαι (sébomai), meaning "to revere" or "to worship."

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for σεμνός, similar concepts can be found in Hebrew words that convey honor and dignity. Some corresponding entries include:

- Strong's Hebrew 3513 (כָּבֵד, kabed): Meaning "to be heavy" or "to honor," often used to describe the act of giving weight or honor to someone or something.
- Strong's Hebrew 1921 (הָדַר, hadar): Meaning "to honor" or "to adorn," used in contexts that emphasize beauty, majesty, and respect.

These Hebrew terms, like σεμνός, reflect the biblical emphasis on living a life that is honorable and worthy of respect, aligning with the values and principles upheld in the New Testament.

Usage: The term σεμνός is used in the New Testament to describe individuals or qualities that are respectable and worthy of honor. It appears in contexts that emphasize moral integrity and the reverence due to those who exhibit such traits.

Context: In the New Testament, σεμνός is used to describe a quality of character that is esteemed and worthy of respect. This term is found in several key passages, each highlighting the importance of dignity and honor in the life of a believer.

- Philippians 4:8 (BSB): "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things." Here, σεμνός is translated as "honorable," emphasizing the importance of focusing on qualities that are worthy of respect and admiration.

- 1 Timothy 3:8 (BSB): "Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued or given to much wine or greedy for money." In this context, σεμνός is rendered as "dignified," describing the character required of deacons, who are to be respected and exhibit integrity in their conduct.

- Titus 2:2 (BSB): "Older men are to be temperate, dignified, self-controlled, and sound in faith, love, and perseverance." Here, σεμνός is again translated as "dignified," underscoring the expectation that older men in the community should embody qualities that command respect and honor.

The use of σεμνός in these passages reflects a broader biblical theme that values moral excellence and the cultivation of a character that is worthy of reverence. It is a call for believers to live in a manner that is consistent with the high standards of the Christian faith, demonstrating a life that is both respectable and exemplary.

4586 semnós (an adjective derived from 4576 /sébomai, "to revere, be in awe") – properly, what is august (dignified, has "gravitas"); weighty, deeply respected because viewed as majestic (having "gravity"); grave.

Word Origin
from sebó
Definition
reverend, i.e. venerable, spec. serious
NASB Translation
dignified (2), honorable (1), men of dignity (1).

STRONGS NT 4586: σεμνός

σεμνός, σεμνή, σεμνόν (σέβω), from (Homer h. Cer., others), Aeschylus, Pindar down, august, venerable, reverend; to be venerated for character, honorable: of persons (A. V. grave), 1 Timothy 3:8, 11; Titus 2:2; of deeds, Philippians 4:8. (Cf. Trench, § xcii.; Schmidt, chapter 173, 5.)

Strong's Exhaustive Concordance

grave, honest.

From sebomai; venerable, i.e. Honorable -- grave, honest.

see GREEK sebomai

Forms and Transliterations

σεμνα σεμνά σεμναί σεμνας σεμνάς σεμνους σεμνούς semna semná semnas semnás semnous semnoús

Links

Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts