Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:

PHILIPPIANS 2:9KJV
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Philippians 2:9 (KJV)

What does Philippians 2:9 mean?

Philippians 2:9 says that God has lifted Jesus to the highest place and given him a name that is above every other name. This verse highlights the honor and authority God has given to Jesus after his humility and obedience.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Philippi, explaining how Jesus’ humble attitude led to his exaltation by God. The verse comes right after Paul describes Jesus’ willingness to humble himself, even to the point of dying on a cross. Here, Paul shows that God responded by giving Jesus the highest status and recognition possible.

The Greek behind Philippians 2:9

  • "highly exalted" (ὑπερύψωσεν, hyperypsōsen): This word means to raise up beyond measure or to the highest degree. Paul uses it to show that God did not just lift Jesus up, but gave him the greatest possible honor.
  • "given" (ἐχαρίσατο, echarisato): This word often carries the sense of giving graciously or as a gift. It emphasizes that the honor and name Jesus received were given freely by God, not earned by force.
  • "name" (ὄνομα, onoma): In the ancient world, a "name" often stood for a person’s reputation, authority, or identity. Saying Jesus received a name above every name means he was given unmatched honor and authority.

Why Philippians 2:9 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Jesus’ exaltation is directly connected to his humility and obedience, not to power or self-promotion.
  • The emphasis on God’s action (“God…hath highly exalted him”) shows that Jesus’ honor comes from God’s decision, not from human recognition.
  • In the wider passage, this verse is part of Paul’s call for believers to imitate Jesus’ humility, showing that true greatness comes through humble service.

Where else these words appear

“given” Greek G5483 · used in 19 verses

  • Luke 7:21 And in that same hour he cured many of their infirmities and plagues, and of evil spirits; and unto many that were blind he gave sight.
  • Acts 27:24 Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee.
  • Galatians 3:18 For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.

“Wherefore” Greek G1352 · used in 52 verses

  • Matthew 27:8 Wherefore that field was called, The field of blood, unto this day.
  • Romans 15:7 Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.
  • Philemon 1:8 Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient,

“above” Greek G5228 · used in 144 verses

  • Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
  • Romans 15:30 Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ's sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me;
  • Ephesians 3:1 For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles,