Equality
TextsWhat is the meaning of Equality in the Bible?
In Philippians 2:6, the Greek term harpagmos refers to the state of possessing divine attributes or prerogatives, indicating that Jesus existed in the form of God rather than merely claiming personal equality.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing that harpagmos denotes an inherent possession of divine status clarifies the Christological argument in Philippians, demonstrating how the author establishes Jesus' pre-existence and divine nature before describing his subsequent humility and incarnation.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Equality functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Equality in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Equality clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Philippians 2:6
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Equality." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/equality/