Estate
“Standing, condition, position”
Summary
In biblical usage, 'estate' refers to one's condition, position, or rank rather than property holdings. Scripture uses the term for social standing, official position, and the state or condition of individuals or groups.
☩Usage and Meaning
The King James Version uses 'estate' and 'state' somewhat interchangeably for 'condition.' Modern translations distinguish more precisely, using 'state' for condition and 'estate' for position or rank. In Luke 1:48, Mary praises God who 'hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden'—referring to her humble social position. Mark 6:21 speaks of 'chief estates' (KJV), meaning 'chief men' (RSV) or leading officials. Daniel uses 'estate' for royal position or office (Dan 11:7, 20, 21, 38).
☩Theological Implications
Paul commands believers to 'condescend to men of low estate' (Rom 12:16)—associating with the humble rather than seeking the company of the prominent. Jude warns of those who 'kept not their first estate' (Jude 6), referring to angels who abandoned their proper position. The concept of estate thus carries moral weight: God honors those of low estate while judging those who grasp at positions not properly theirs.
