Brief Overview of αὐτάρκεια (G841: autarkeia)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: autarkeia

Root Words: The word αὐτάρκεια (autarkeia) comes from the Greek adjective αὐτάρκης (autarkēs), which is a compound of αὐτός (autos), meaning “self,” and ἀρκέω (arkeō), meaning “to suffice” or “to be enough.” Together, αὐτάρκεια conveys the idea of self-sufficiency or contentment.

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Primary Meanings:

• Self-Sufficiency: The primary meaning of αὐτάρκεια is the state of being self-sufficient, having enough resources within oneself without needing external assistance.
• Contentment: It also carries the connotation of contentment or satisfaction, particularly in the context of being satisfied with what one has, without desiring more.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: According to BDAG, αὐτάρκεια is defined as “contentment, self-sufficiency,” and refers to the condition of being satisfied with what one has, not needing more to be at peace. BDAG emphasizes that in the New Testament, this term is used in a positive light, especially in the context of spiritual contentment.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Lexicon defines αὐτάρκεια as “a perfect condition of life, in which no aid or support is needed,” and “sufficiency of the necessities of life.” Thayer’s highlights the word’s usage in relation to both material and spiritual sufficiency.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary notes that αὐτάρκεια conveys the idea of being content with one’s circumstances. Vines particularly stresses its use in the New Testament to describe a Christian’s satisfaction in God’s provision.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon provides a broader definition of αὐτάρκεια, applying it to the state of being independent and self-sufficient, especially in terms of resources and personal satisfaction.

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

Bible Verses:

• 2 Corinthians 9:8 (KJV): “And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work.”
• Here, αὐτάρκεια is translated as “sufficiency,” emphasizing God’s provision of everything necessary.
• 1 Timothy 6:6 (KJV): “But godliness with contentment is great gain.”
• In this verse, αὐτάρκεια is rendered as “contentment,” highlighting the value of being satisfied with what one has in a godly life.

3. Classic Greek Literature:

Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

• Plato: In Republic, Plato uses αὐτάρκεια to describe a state of self-sufficiency as an ideal for individuals and the state, emphasizing independence from external needs.
• Aristotle: In Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle discusses αὐτάρκεια as an essential component of happiness, defining it as the ability to live well without relying on others.
• Epicurus: In his teachings, Epicurus promotes αὐτάρκεια as a fundamental principle for achieving a peaceful and happy life, focusing on the idea of being content with simple pleasures and the absence of pain.

4. Summary:

αὐτάρκεια (autarkeia) is a Greek noun meaning “self-sufficiency” or “contentment.” Derived from the concepts of self and sufficiency, it primarily describes the state of being content with what one has and not needing external support. Lexicons such as BDAG and Thayer’s emphasize its positive connotations in the New Testament, where it refers to both material and spiritual contentment. The word is used in key biblical passages to convey the idea of sufficiency in God’s provision and the value of contentment. In classical Greek literature, philosophers like Plato, Aristotle, and Epicurus discuss αὐτάρκεια as a significant virtue, emphasizing its role in achieving happiness and independence. Understanding αὐτάρκεια provides valuable insight into the biblical teachings on contentment and the philosophical ideals of self-sufficiency in the ancient world.