Brief Overview of ἐπιτήδειος (Strong’s G2006: epítēdeios)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for interpreting the New Testament and gaining insights into the cultural and intellectual context of ancient Greek society. The word ἐπιτήδειος (Strong’s G2006: epítēdeios) is particularly significant as it means “suitable,” “useful,” or “necessary.” This adjective is essential in passages that emphasize qualities such as appropriateness, practicality, or utility, reflecting both the ethical and practical dimensions in Biblical and classical Greek literature.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: ἐπιτήδειος (epítēdeios) [eh-pee-TEE-deh-ee-os]
• Etymology: Derived from the prefix ἐπί (epi), meaning “upon” or “for,” and the root τῆδε (tēde), meaning “this” or “here.” Together, they suggest something “pertinent for this” or “suitable for this purpose.”
• Part of Speech: Adjective; first/second declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Suitable or fit for a purpose.
• Useful, necessary, or advantageous.
• Close or intimate (in the context of relationships or proximity).

Similar Words: κατάλληλος (katállēlos) [ka-TAL-leh-los] also means “suitable” or “appropriate,” but it emphasizes being well-matched or corresponding to a specific need or context. In contrast, epítēdeios encompasses broader contexts of utility, necessity, and suitability for a given situation or purpose.

Further Insights: The adjective ἐπιτήδειος is versatile in its application, ranging from describing objects that are useful or necessary to indicating close or intimate relationships. Its usage extends from practical contexts (such as describing tools or resources) to more abstract concepts (such as describing a close friend or ally). The word belongs to both the first and second declensions in Greek, varying depending on the gender of the noun it modifies.

Click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek: Understanding Greek Grammar: A Beginner’s Guide.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
ἐπιτήδειος is defined as “suitable” or “necessary,” often in contexts where something is appropriate or required for a specific purpose. It is also used to describe someone who is close or intimate, such as a friend or ally.

Thayer’s Lexicon:
Describes epítēdeios as “suitable” or “useful,” with a strong connotation of being fit for a purpose. It highlights its use in describing both tangible and intangible things that are advantageous or necessary.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary:
Notes that epítēdeios conveys the idea of something being necessary or appropriate, particularly in contexts involving preparation, readiness, or suitability for a task or purpose.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones):
Highlights that epítēdeios can mean “suitable,” “necessary,” or “intimate,” especially in classical Greek texts where it denotes suitability for a task, purpose, or close relationship.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Defines epítēdeios as “necessary” or “fit,” focusing on its usage in the New Testament and other Greek literature to describe something or someone that is deemed appropriate, useful, or closely associated.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 6:3: “Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business [ἐπιτηδείους (epitēdeious)].”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπιτήδειος (G2006: epítēdeios)

The Greek word ἐπιτήδειος (epítēdeios), meaning “suitable,” “useful,” or “necessary,” is an adjective that captures the concept of something being appropriate or fit for a specific purpose. In the New Testament, it is used to describe individuals who are suitable or prepared for a particular task or role, as seen in Acts 6:3. The word also appears in classical Greek literature and the Septuagint, where it is employed to describe suitability for roles, tasks, or relationships. Understanding epítēdeios provides valuable insights into the ancient Greek and Biblical concepts of utility, fitness, and appropriateness in various contexts.

Did You Know?

Did you know that ἐπιτήδειος combines a Greek prefix meaning “for” or “upon” with a root that suggests specificity or proximity, resulting in a word that conveys suitability or appropriateness for a specific situation? This word reflects the Greek emphasis on practicality and fittingness, whether in personal relationships, civic responsibilities, or ethical decisions.