Meaning of the Greek Word for Reviled in 1 Peter 2:23
Understanding the Greek Word for "Reviled" in 1 Peter 2:23
1 Peter 2:23 states, "Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously" [1]. The Greek word translated as "reviled" in this verse is λοιδορέω (loidoreō), which means to reproach or insult someone [3]. This term is significant in understanding Jesus' response to his suffering and death.
The literary context of 1 Peter 2:23 is within a larger section that encourages believers to follow Jesus' example in suffering unjustly (1 Peter 2:18-25). The surrounding verses describe Jesus' behavior during his passion, highlighting his non-retaliation and trust in God's justice. The passage is part of a broader argument in 1 Peter that encourages believers to endure suffering with patience and faith, just as Jesus did.
Historically, 1 Peter is believed to have been written in the late 1st century, likely between 60-90 AD, to early Christian communities in Asia Minor [4]. The author, traditionally identified as Peter, addresses the challenges faced by these communities, including persecution and suffering.
The key term λοιδορέω (loidoreō) is used in 1 Peter 2:23 to describe the verbal abuse Jesus suffered. This word is also found in other New Testament contexts, such as in the parallel account of Jesus' passion in the Gospels. Understanding the nuances of this term helps in grasping the nature of Jesus' suffering and his response to it.
One major exegetical decision related to 1 Peter 2:23 involves the interpretation of Jesus' actions and words during his suffering. The verse highlights Jesus' refusal to retaliate when reviled and his commitment to God, who judges righteously. The Douay-Rheims translation renders the verse as, "Who, when he was reviled, did not revile: when he suffered, he threatened not, but delivered himself to him that judged him unjustly" [2]. The difference in translation between "him that judgeth righteously" (KJV) and "him that judged him unjustly" (DRC) reflects a textual variant. The KJV follows a reading that emphasizes God's righteous judgment, while the DRC reflects a reading that highlights the unjust nature of Jesus' human judges.
Interpretations of 1 Peter 2:23 vary among commentators. According to Adam Clarke, a Methodist/Wesleyan commentator, Jesus' example in not reviling back is a model for Christian behavior under suffering [4]. Jamieson, Fausset & Brown, representing a Presbyterian tradition, emphasize the significance of Jesus' commitment to God during his suffering, underscoring the theme of trust in divine justice [5].
The passage has functioned significantly in Christian tradition, particularly in discussions about suffering, non-retaliation, and trust in God's justice. It has been cited in various theological and devotional contexts to encourage believers to follow Jesus' example in the face of adversity.
The use of λοιδορέω (loidoreō) in 1 Peter 2:23, and its implications for understanding Jesus' response to suffering, remains a crucial aspect of Christian reflection on these themes. By examining the historical, literary, and theological contexts of this verse, believers can deepen their understanding of Jesus' teachings and example.
Sources
- King James Version “[KJV] 1 Peter 2:23 — Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:”
- I Peter “I Peter 2:23 (DRC) — Who, when he was reviled, did not revile: when he suffered, he threatened not, but delivered himself to him that judged him unjustly.”
- 2 Peter (Presbyterian) “Jamieson, Fausset & Brown on 2 Peter 2:8: vexed--Greek, "tormented."”
- 1 Peter (Methodist/Wesleyan) “Adam Clarke on 1 Peter 3:17: For it is better - See on Pe1 2:19, Pe1 2:20 (note).”
- 1 Peter (Presbyterian) “Jamieson, Fausset & Brown on 1 Peter 1:3: He begins, like Paul, in opening his Epistles with giving thanks to God for the greatness of the salvation; herein he looks forward (1) into the future (Pe1 1:3-9); (2) backward into the past (Pe1 1:10-12) [ALFORD]. Blessed--A distinct Greek word (eulogetos, "Blessed BE") is used of God, from that used of man (eulogemenos, "Blessed IS"). Father--This whole Epistle accords with the Lord's prayer; "Father," Pe1 1:3, Pe1 1:14, Pe1 1:17, Pe1 1:23; Pe1 2:2; "Our," Pe1 1:4, end; "In heaven," Pe1 1:4; "Hallowed be Thy name," Pe1 1:15-16; Pe1 3:15; "Thy ki”