Code of Honor预览

Honor in the Bible

The Greek word for honor (timé) appears around forty-three times in the New Testament, while the Hebrew verb for honor (kāḇaḏ) appears about 113 times and the noun (kabód) 200 times in the Old Testament. This abundance makes it clear how much God emphasizes the concept and its significance for us.

In both biblical languages, the term primarily implies value or weight—the kind of worth that determines the price of something being bought or sold. It carries a metaphorical sense of something that is heavy, important, and worthy of honor.

This reminds me of a very special jacket I own that once belonged to my grandfather. For me, that jacket carries a weight of value far greater than any other. It doesn’t matter if other jackets are more stylish or expensive—this one holds a unique and personal worth in my heart and mind.

Likewise, the word honor refers to the recognition or deference given to someone according to their role or position. At the heart of many cultures lies a way of expressing honor to God and to people in ways that reflect how they are valued. The word honor is foundational to both the culture and theology of the Bible, as it conveys respect, worth, importance, and even authority in our lives.

Another common meaning of kabód is glory. While closely connected to the concept of honor, it also refers to the majesty and splendor of inanimate objects (Exodus 28:2) and of human beings (Proverbs 20:3). However, the overwhelming use of kabód refers to the glory of God. He possesses glory innately (Psalm 113:4), and it is expressed through His power, authority, and honor. The sum of His virtuous attributes, expressed in unique and radiant glory, gives Him incomparable weight and makes Him worthy of all honor.

To live in a context or culture of honor means to continually and intentionally recognize, restore, and appropriately position what holds true weight. To give honor is to give someone or something its proper place. When something is seen for what it truly is, it is properly valued—and that brings peace, order, and a sense of fullness to everything around it.

To Reflect: Understanding the meaning of the word honor as “weight” or “glory” leads us to truly value and recognize God for who He is.