Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

EPHESIANS 5:33KJV
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Ephesians 5:33 (KJV)

What does Ephesians 5:33 mean?

Ephesians 5:33 tells each husband to love his wife as he loves himself, and each wife to respect her husband. This verse sums up Paul’s teaching on marriage by highlighting the distinct attitudes each spouse is called to show the other.

Paul is writing to Christians in Ephesus, giving practical instructions for how believers should live together. In this verse, Paul addresses both husbands and wives, using clear language to show that both love and respect are essential for a healthy marriage relationship. The verse serves as a summary statement after a longer section about marriage roles.

The Greek behind Ephesians 5:33

  • The word translated "love" is ἀγαπάω (agapaō), which means a self-giving, committed love. Paul uses this word to call husbands to a deep, sacrificial care for their wives, not just affection or attraction.
  • The word translated "reverence" is φοβέομαι (phobeomai), which often means "to fear" but here is understood as "to respect" or "to hold in high regard." Paul is not telling wives to be afraid, but to show honor and respect to their husbands.
  • The phrase "even as himself" uses ἑαυτοῦ (heautou), stressing that a husband’s love for his wife should be as natural and complete as the care he gives himself.

Why Ephesians 5:33 matters

  • This verse clarifies that both husbands and wives have important, complementary responsibilities in marriage, rather than placing the burden on only one spouse.
  • Ephesians 5:33 highlights the different needs and strengths that can exist in a marriage, encouraging mutual care and respect.
  • The verse ties together the broader teaching in Ephesians 5 about how Christian relationships should reflect Christ’s love and the church’s response, making it a key summary for understanding Christian marriage.

Where else these words appear

“Nevertheless” Greek G4133 · used in 31 verses

  • Matthew 11:22 But I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the day of judgment, than for you.
  • Luke 10:20 Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.
  • John 8:10 When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?

“one” Greek G1538 · used in 78 verses

  • Matthew 16:27 For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.
  • Romans 2:6 Who will render to every man according to his deeds:
  • 2 Corinthians 9:7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.

“reverence” Greek G5399 · used in 90 verses

  • Matthew 1:20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
  • Luke 1:30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.
  • Acts 13:16 Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience.

“let” Greek G25 · used in 109 verses

  • Matthew 5:43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
  • John 15:9 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.
  • 2 Timothy 4:8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.