epainos denotes commendation given or sought for persons, conduct, and God’s glory in Scripture.

The attested use most often concerns commendation accorded to people, faith, or good conduct: it may come from God, human authorities, or the assemblies. It also occurs in purpose phrases directed toward the glory of God, and once as a quality set alongside virtue for reflection.

1. Commendation accorded for persons or conduct · dominant

   In 1 Corinthians 4:5, the nominative form stands in the clause where each person receives commendation from God after hidden matters are revealed. Romans 2:29 contrasts commendation from God with that from humans, while Romans 13:3 places it after doing good under authority; 1 Peter 1:7 and 1 Peter 2:14 likewise connect it with tested faith and those who do good.

   1 Corinthians 4:5Romans 2:29Romans 13:31 Peter 1:71 Peter 2:142 Corinthians 8:18
2. Acclaim directed toward God's glory · common

   The accusative form occurs in purpose-oriented clauses in Ephesians 1:6, Ephesians 1:12, and Ephesians 1:14, each with the APB rendering “for the praise of his glory” or “to the praise of his glory.” In Philippians 1:11, it stands with glory in the outcome of righteousness directed to God.

   Ephesians 1:6Ephesians 1:12Ephesians 1:14Philippians 1:11
3. A commendable quality for reflection · occasional

   In Philippians 4:8, the nominative form appears in the closing condition, “if there is any virtue and if there is any praise,” followed by the instruction to think on such things. The clause presents it as a quality included among things worthy of attention.

   Philippians 4:8

In the Anselm Project Bible: The APB commonly presents the term with “praise,” including commendation from God, rulers, and the assemblies, as well as phrases directed to God’s glory. Its wording confirms the clauses’ broad presentation rather than fixing a separate English equivalent in every occurrence.