Brief Overview of ἀγενής (Strong’s G36: Agenēs)

ἀγενής (Agenēs):
The Greek word “ἀγενής” (agenēs) translates to “base” or “of lowly birth.” It is derived from “ἀ-” (a-, meaning “without”) and “γένος” (genos, meaning “race” or “birth”). The term is used to describe someone who is of humble origin or lower social status. In biblical contexts, it can denote someone who lacks noble or distinguished ancestry.

Detailed Overview Incorporating Other Concordances

ἀγενής (Agenēs):

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1. Strong’s Concordance:

• Meaning: According to Strong’s Concordance (G36), “ἀγενής” is defined as “base” or “of lowly birth.” It signifies a person of humble origins or someone without noble lineage. This term is used to emphasize the lack of distinguished or high social status, indicating a more modest or humble background (e.g., 1 Corinthians 1:28).

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Meaning: Thayer’s Lexicon defines “ἀγενής” as “base” or “of lowly birth,” referring to someone of humble or unimportant origins. It emphasizes a lack of social or noble standing, highlighting modest or inferior status. The term can be used to contrast individuals of higher social rank or lineage (e.g., 1 Corinthians 1:28).

1. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words:

• Meaning: Vine’s Dictionary describes “ἀγενής” as “base” or “of lowly birth.” Vine’s explains that the term denotes individuals who come from humble or unremarkable backgrounds, lacking in noble or distinguished ancestry. It underscores their lower social or economic status (e.g., 1 Corinthians 1:28).

1. Louw-Nida Greek-English Lexicon:

• Meaning: The Louw-Nida Lexicon categorizes “ἀγενής” as referring to someone who is “base” or “of lowly birth.” It defines the term as relating to a humble or inferior social status, without noble or distinguished ancestry. The lexicon notes its use in contexts where social rank or origin is emphasized (e.g., 1 Corinthians 1:28).

1. Moulton-Milligan Vocabulary of the Greek New Testament:

• Meaning: Moulton-Milligan defines “ἀγενής” as “base” or “of lowly birth.” It highlights its use to describe people of humble or inferior origin, lacking in social or noble distinction. The term is used to contrast with those of higher status or lineage (e.g., 1 Corinthians 1:28).

Summary:
“ἀγενής” (agenēs) translates to “base” or “of lowly birth” and refers to individuals of humble origins or lower social status. Various concordances, including Strong’s, Thayer’s, Vine’s, Louw-Nida, and Moulton-Milligan, highlight its meaning as describing those without noble or distinguished ancestry. The term emphasizes a modest or inferior background, often used in biblical texts to contrast with higher social or noble statuses.