Refiner Word Study porphyrous (G4210)
G4210  ·  Greek  ·  Strong's Concordance
πορφυροῦς
porphyrous
3 occurrences in Scripture Greek

"contracted form is πορφύρεος, purple, Jn. 19:2, 5; purple clothing, Rev. 17:4; 18:16*"

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Definition and meaning

What does porphyrous mean in Greek?

3
Occurrences in Scripture
G4210
Strong's number
Greek
Original language

contracted form is πορφύρεος, purple, Jn. 19:2, 5; purple clothing, Rev. 17:4; 18:16*

In the original Greek the word is written: πορφυροῦς

Historical context

What was happening when this word was written?

Roman-Occupied Judea (c. 4 BC-AD 30)

John wrote for an audience familiar with both Jewish Scripture and Greek philosophy. The logos — the Word — was a term Greek philosophers used for the rational principle underlying the universe. John takes that concept and says: that logos became a person and lived among us. Crucifixion was the Roman execution method designed to maximize public humiliation, reserved for slaves and rebels.

The people who first heard this word were not reading a book — they were living through empires, oppression, exile, and covenant. Every word carried the weight of that reality. Understanding it changes how you read Scripture.

Scripture references

Top 3 Bible verses with porphyrous

These are the most notable occurrences of porphyrous (G4210) across the King James Bible.

John 19:2

And the soldiers platted a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and they put on him a purple robe,

John 19:5

Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man!

Revelation 18:16

And saying, Alas, alas, that great city, that was clothed in fine linen, and purple, and scarlet, and decked with gold, and precious stones, and pearls!

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Common questions

Frequently asked questions about porphyrous

What does porphyrous mean in Greek?

Strong's G4210 (porphyrous) is a Greek word that means: contracted form is πορφύρεος, purple, Jn. 19:2, 5; purple clothing, Rev. 17:4; 18:16* It appears 3 times in the King James Bible.

How many times does porphyrous appear in the Bible?

The word porphyrous (G4210) appears 3 times in the original Greek text.

What is Strong's number G4210?

Strong's G4210 is porphyrous, a Greek word defined as: contracted form is πορφύρεος, purple, Jn. 19:2, 5; purple clothing, Rev. 17:4; 18:16*. James Strong catalogued this in his 1890 concordance to help English readers study the original languages of the Bible.

Is porphyrous in the Old Testament or New Testament?

porphyrous is a Greek word found in the New Testament.