Ephesians 5:22 (KJV)

What does Ephesians 5:22 mean?

Ephesians 5:22 instructs wives to submit themselves to their own husbands in the same way they would to the Lord. The verse is part of a passage where the apostle Paul gives guidance on relationships within a Christian household, focusing here on the role of wives.

Paul is writing to the church in Ephesus, addressing Christian families about how they should relate to each other. The instruction uses language that connects the relationship between a wife and her husband to the relationship between believers and Christ, setting a tone for mutual respect and order in the home. The wider context includes directions for husbands and other household members as well.

The Greek behind Ephesians 5:22

• "Wives" (γυναῖκες, gynaikes): This word specifically addresses married women, making clear that the instruction is directed to wives, not women in general.
• "Yourselves" (ὑποτάσσεσθε, hypotassesthe): This Greek verb is often understood as "to place oneself under" or "to submit voluntarily," suggesting a willing attitude rather than forced obedience.
• "Own" (ἰδίοις, idiois): This word highlights that the instruction is about a wife’s relationship to her own husband, not to men in general.
• "Husbands" (ἀνδράσιν, andrasin): This term refers specifically to male spouses, clarifying the relationship in view.
• "As" (ὡς, hōs): This word draws a comparison, indicating that the submission is to be in the same manner as to the Lord, which shapes the tone and limits of the instruction.
• "Lord" (κυρίῳ, kyriō): Refers to Jesus Christ, anchoring the instruction in the Christian faith and giving it a spiritual dimension.

Why Ephesians 5:22 matters

• Ephesians 5:22 is sometimes misunderstood as a general command for all women, but the Greek wording makes clear it is directed specifically to wives in relation to their own husbands.
• The verse is part of a larger passage that discusses mutual responsibilities in marriage, not just the role of wives, so reading it in context is important for understanding Paul’s full teaching.
• The comparison "as unto the Lord" frames the instruction within the Christian faith, emphasizing that the relationship is shaped by respect and devotion, not by domination or inequality.