Brief Overview of ἀγαθωσύνη (G19: Agathosyne)

ἀγαθωσύνη (Agathosyne):
The Greek word “ἀγαθωσύνη” (agathosyne) translates to “goodness” or “benevolence.” It is derived from “ἀγαθός” (agathos), meaning “good,” and refers to a quality or virtue of being good, kind, and beneficial. This term is often used in the New Testament to describe a moral attribute that embodies kindness, generosity, and a genuine disposition to do good for others.

Detailed Overview Incorporating Other Concordances

ἀγαθωσύνη (Agathosyne):

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• Meaning: According to Strong’s Concordance (G19), “ἀγαθωσύνη” is translated as “goodness” or “benevolence.” It reflects a moral quality that involves kindness and an inclination to act with virtue. Strong’s emphasizes that this term denotes an ethical characteristic that is demonstrated through acts of kindness and generosity.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Meaning: Thayer’s Lexicon defines “ἀγαθωσύνη” as “goodness,” “benevolence,” or “kindness.” Thayer’s elaborates that it refers to a disposition of moral excellence and a genuine concern for the well-being of others. This term is used in the New Testament to describe a fruit of the Spirit and a desirable quality for Christian living (e.g., Galatians 5:22).

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

• Meaning: Vine’s Dictionary describes “ἀγαθωσύνη” as “goodness” or “kindness,” emphasizing its use to denote a moral quality that involves active benevolence. Vine’s highlights that this term represents a disposition that is concerned with the welfare of others and reflects the Christian call to live out virtues that benefit others.

1. Louw-Nida Greek-English Lexicon:

• Meaning: The Louw-Nida Lexicon classifies “ἀγαθωσύνη” under terms related to ethical behavior and virtue. It defines the word as “goodness” or “benevolence,” focusing on actions and attitudes that reflect moral integrity and kindness. The lexicon notes its application in the New Testament to describe the fruit of the Spirit and the ethical conduct expected of believers (e.g., Ephesians 5:9).

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

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• Meaning: Moulton-Milligan discusses “ἀγαθωσύνη” as meaning “goodness” or “benevolence.” The vocabulary emphasizes its use in the New Testament to denote a moral quality characterized by kindness and active concern for others. Moulton-Milligan highlights the term’s role in illustrating the virtues that are integral to Christian ethical teachings.

Summary:
“ἀγαθωσύνη” (agathosyne) translates to “goodness” or “benevolence” and describes a moral quality involving kindness, generosity, and a genuine disposition to benefit others. Various concordances, including Strong’s, Thayer’s, Vine’s, Louw-Nida, and Moulton-Milligan, highlight its importance in depicting ethical behavior and the fruit of the Spirit in Christian living. The term underscores the value of embodying virtues that reflect moral excellence and active benevolence in one’s interactions with others.