Brief Overview of αὐτάρκης (G842: autarkēs)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: autarkēs

Root Words: The Greek word αὐτάρκης (autarkēs) is composed of two elements: αὐτός (autos), meaning “self,” and ἀρκέω (arkeō), meaning “to be sufficient” or “to be enough.” The term literally means “self-sufficient” or “sufficient in oneself.”

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Primary Meanings:

• Self-Sufficient: αὐτάρκης refers to a state of being independent or having enough resources within oneself, without reliance on external support.
• Content: It also conveys the idea of being content or satisfied, particularly with one’s own circumstances, without desiring more.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: According to BDAG, αὐτάρκης means “sufficient, adequate,” and “content, self-sufficient.” The lexicon emphasizes that in the New Testament, the word describes a state of satisfaction or sufficiency, particularly in the context of spiritual contentment or God-given sufficiency.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon defines αὐτάρκης as “self-sufficient, contented with one’s lot,” emphasizing the idea of independence from external needs or supports. Thayer’s notes that the term is used in the New Testament to express a Christian’s sufficiency in God’s provision.

Vines: In Vines’ Expository Dictionary, αὐτάρκης is discussed as the state of being content or sufficient, especially in the context of the Christian life. Vines highlights how the term reflects a reliance on God rather than external circumstances.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon also defines αὐτάρκης as “self-sufficient” or “independent,” particularly in terms of resources and personal satisfaction. The term is used in broader Greek literature to describe someone who is able to sustain themselves without external aid.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s lists αὐτάρκης as meaning “self-sufficient” or “content,” focusing on the idea of having enough and being satisfied with what one has.

Bible Verses:

• Philippians 4:11 (KJV): “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.”
• Here, αὐτάρκης is translated as “content,” reflecting the apostle Paul’s expression of sufficiency in all circumstances.
• 2 Corinthians 9:8 (ESV): “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.”
• This verse emphasizes God’s provision of sufficiency, which is expressed by the related concept of αὐτάρκεια.

3. Classic Greek Literature:

Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

• Plato: In Republic 369b, Plato uses αὐτάρκης to describe a person or a city-state that is self-sufficient, needing nothing from outside to sustain itself.
• Aristotle: In Nicomachean Ethics I.5, Aristotle discusses αὐτάρκης as a characteristic of the ideal life, suggesting that true happiness requires self-sufficiency and independence.
• Epicurus: In his letters and teachings, Epicurus promotes the virtue of αὐτάρκης, advocating for a life of self-sufficiency, where happiness comes from within rather than from external possessions or pleasures.

4. Summary:

αὐτάρκης (autarkēs) is a Greek adjective meaning “self-sufficient” or “content.” Derived from the words for “self” and “sufficient,” it primarily describes someone who is independent and satisfied with their own circumstances without reliance on external support. Lexicons such as BDAG and Thayer’s emphasize the word’s positive connotations in the New Testament, where it refers to the sufficiency found in God’s provision. The word is used in key biblical passages to convey the idea of contentment in any situation. In classical Greek literature, philosophers like Plato, Aristotle, and Epicurus discuss αὐτάρκης as a significant virtue, highlighting its role in achieving happiness and independence. Understanding αὐτάρκης offers valuable insights into the biblical teachings on contentment and the philosophical ideals of self-sufficiency in the ancient world.