Brief Overview of ἀστεῖος (G791: asteios)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: asteios

Root Words: The term ἀστεῖος (asteios) is derived from ἀστός (astós), meaning “city,” with an implication of refinement or urbanity.

Primary Meanings:

• Refined: Characterized by elegance and sophistication, often associated with city life.
• Polite: Displaying manners or courtesy, especially in social interactions.
• Nice or charming: Pleasant or attractive in manner or appearance.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG defines ἀστεῖος as “of or pertaining to the city,” reflecting the refined and elegant qualities associated with urban life. It is used to describe someone or something that exhibits a sense of sophistication and courtesy.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon expands on this by noting that ἀστεῖος means “polite,” “urbane,” or “elegant,” highlighting the term’s connection to refined manners and urban sophistication.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary describes ἀστεῖος as “refined” or “elegant,” noting its use in contexts where an individual’s politeness or charm is emphasized.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon defines ἀστεῖος as “urban,” “elegant,” or “refined,” further specifying its use to describe someone possessing urbane manners or charm.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s lists ἀστεῖος as “nice,” “polite,” or “charming,” indicating its general use to describe pleasant or sophisticated qualities.

Bible Verses:

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• Luke 7:25 (KJV): “But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously appareled, and live delicately, are in kings’ courts.”
• The term ἀστεῖος is used to describe someone who exhibits refined or elegant qualities, in contrast to the rugged or ascetic lifestyle of others.

3. Classic Greek Literature:

Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

• Aristotle uses terms related to ἀστεῖος to discuss the concept of urban sophistication and refined manners, often in the context of philosophical and social discussions.
• Plato employs related ideas when describing the characteristics of the ideal city or the refined nature of its inhabitants.
• Xenophon uses the term in his works to describe the refined qualities of certain characters or the elegance of their manners, reflecting the urban influences on their behavior.

4. Summary:

ἀστεῖος (asteios) captures the essence of urban refinement and politeness. It denotes qualities of sophistication, elegance, and charm, often associated with city life and cultured manners. The term reflects a sense of refined social behavior and pleasant demeanor, distinguished from more rugged or rural attributes.