Brief Overview of αὐστηρός (G840: austēros)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: austēros

Root Words: The word αὐστηρός (austēros) comes from the Greek adjective form that likely stems from a root associated with harshness or severity, though its exact origin is uncertain.

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Primary Meanings:

• Harsh: The primary meaning of αὐστηρός is “harsh,” describing something or someone that is stern, severe, or strict in manner or attitude.
• Stern: It also carries the sense of being stern or austere, particularly in how one deals with others, emphasizing a lack of softness or leniency.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: According to BDAG, αὐστηρός is defined as “harsh, severe,” and is used to describe a person who is demanding, strict, and unyielding. BDAG highlights that this word often characterizes someone who expects much and shows little flexibility or mercy.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Lexicon similarly defines αὐστηρός as “austere, harsh, or rigorous,” and notes its use in contexts where someone is described as exacting or unrelenting. Thayer’s also emphasizes the word’s negative connotation, particularly in relation to how one treats others.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary notes that αὐστηρός conveys the idea of severity or austerity in both actions and attitudes. It highlights that this word is used in the New Testament to describe a person who is hard or stern, often in a judgmental sense.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon provides a broader definition of αὐστηρός, applying it not only to people but also to circumstances or environments that are harsh or severe. It can describe anything that is unyielding or difficult to endure.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s lists αὐστηρός as meaning “austere, harsh.” The word is used to describe someone who is severe in judgment or discipline, with an emphasis on strictness and rigidity.

Bible Verses:

• Luke 19:21 (KJV): “For I feared thee, because thou art an austere man: thou takest up that thou layedst not down, and reapest that thou didst not sow.”
• In this verse, αὐστηρός is translated as “austere,” referring to the harsh and demanding nature of the master in the parable.
• Luke 19:22 (KJV): “And he saith unto him, Out of thine own mouth will I judge thee, thou wicked servant. Thou knewest that I was an austere man, taking up that I laid not down, and reaping that I did not sow.”
• Again, αὐστηρός is used to describe the master as stern and unyielding.

3. Classic Greek Literature:

Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

• Aristophanes: In The Clouds, Aristophanes uses αὐστηρός to describe a character who is strict and harsh in demeanor, particularly in the context of teaching or disciplining others.
• Plato: In Republic, Plato employs αὐστηρός to describe the stern and rigorous nature of a ruler or philosopher who is unyielding in their principles and expectations.
• Plutarch: In his writings, Plutarch often uses αὐστηρός to characterize historical figures who were known for their severe and strict behavior, particularly in leadership or military roles.

4. Summary:

αὐστηρός (austēros) is an adjective meaning “harsh,” “stern,” or “austere.” It is used in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature to describe individuals or circumstances that are severe, strict, or unyielding. BDAG and other lexicons consistently define it as conveying a sense of harshness or austerity, often with a negative connotation. In the New Testament, it appears in the context of parables to describe a stern and demanding character. Its use in classical literature, including works by Aristophanes, Plato, and Plutarch, further highlights its association with strictness and severity, particularly in leadership or disciplinary contexts. Understanding αὐστηρός provides insight into the portrayal of harshness and severity in both biblical and classical narratives.