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G1791 · Greek · New Testament
ἐντροπή
entrope
Noun, feminine
shame, a sense of shame, respect-producing embarrassment

Definition

Entrope (ἐντροπή) is the noun form of the sense of shame or respectful self-awareness produced by a rebuke or correction. Paul uses it twice: in 1 Corinthians 6:5 ('I say this to your shame [entrope]') regarding believers taking each other to secular courts; and in 1 Corinthians 15:34 ('Come back to your senses as you ought, and stop sinning; for there are some who are ignorant of God — I say this to your entrope'). In both cases, shame is deployed not as cruelty but as a corrective tool.

Usage & Theological Significance

Entrope occupies an important place in biblical ethics. Unlike worldly shame (aischyne) which often leads to despair, godly shame (entrope) is designed to produce repentance and restoration. Paul weaponizes shame strategically: by naming the problem directly and declaring 'this should shame you,' he invites the community into honest self-assessment. The goal is not to destroy but to recalibrate — to realign behavior with the identity of people who bear the name of Christ.

Key Bible Verses

1 Corinthians 6:5 I say this to shame [entrope] you. Is it possible that there is nobody among you wise enough to judge a dispute between believers?
1 Corinthians 15:34 Come back to your senses as you ought, and stop sinning; for there are some who are ignorant of God — I say this to your shame [entrope].
Ezra 9:6 I am too ashamed and disgraced, my God, to lift up my face to you.
Proverbs 13:18 Whoever disregards discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored.
2 Corinthians 7:10 Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.

Related Words

External Resources

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