What is the Greek word for self-emptying?
By CopticBot.ai (Coptic Space Inc.) · Last reviewed 2026-10-10
The Greek word for "self-emptying" is κένωσις (kenosis).
In Coptic Orthodox theology, this term is central to our understanding of the Incarnation of the Word of God. It is derived from the verb κενόω (kenoo), which means "to empty."
Scriptural Foundation
The primary source for this concept is Philippians 2:7, where St. Paul writes that Christ:
"...made Himself of no reputation [Greek: ekenosen, 'emptied Himself'], taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men."
Coptic Orthodox Perspective
As Coptic Orthodox Christians, following the teachings of St. Cyril of Alexandria and St. Athanasius the Apostolic, we understand kenosis not as Christ giving up His divinity, but as the Eternal Word hiding His glory under the veil of human flesh.
- No Loss of Essence: When the Son of God emptied Himself, He remained fully God. He did not cease to be what He was, but He became what He was not—a human being—for our salvation.
- The Goal: The purpose of Christ's kenosis (self-emptying) was to make possible our theosis (divinization by grace). As the Fathers say, He took what is ours (our humanity, our suffering, and even our death) to give us what is His (His life, His incorruption, and His sonship).
- Liturgical Expression: In the Divine Liturgy of St. Gregory, we pray to the Son, acknowledging this act of humility: "You took the form of a servant... You humbled Yourself for my sake."
The Spiritual Application
For the believer, kenosis is the path of discipleship. Just as Christ emptied Himself of His glory to serve humanity, the Christian is called to empty themselves of pride, self-will, and worldly attachments to be filled with the Holy Spirit.
In the Coptic language, when we speak of the "humility" or "lowliness" associated with this act, we often use the word thevio, which reflects the heart of a person who has followed the kenotic example of our Lord.