Brief Overview of ἀφιλάγαθος (G865: aphilagathos)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: aphilagathos

Root Words: From a- (a prefix indicating negation) and philagathos (lover of good), meaning “not loving good.”

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Primary Meanings:

• Not loving good: Describes someone who does not appreciate or incline towards good, virtue, or kindness.
• Unkind, malevolent: Often used to depict an individual’s character that is not just neutral but actively opposes what is good.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: Emphasizes its usage to describe individuals lacking virtue, particularly in moral or ethical contexts.

Thayer’s: Expands on the moral implications, interpreting it as indicative of hostility towards goodness or virtue.

Vines: Reflects on its implications within Christian moral teachings, noting its usage to caution against behaviors or attitudes that reject or devalue goodness.

LSJ: Considers its broader usage in Greek literature, where it could describe characters known for their disdain or neglect of societal values and virtues.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Provides references and contexts within the New Testament where this trait is warned against or condemned.

Bible Verses:

• Titus 1:8 (KJV): “But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate.”

3. Classic Greek Literature:

Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

• Aristophanes’ Plays: Utilized to describe characters with flawed moral compasses or those who mock traditional virtues.
• Platonic Dialogues: Plato may use it to discuss the characteristics of individuals who oppose philosophical wisdom or societal good.
• Historical Texts by Thucydides: Describes political figures or leaders who acted against the welfare of the state or ethical norms.

4. Summary:

ἀφιλάγαθος (aphilagathos) conveys a strong negative quality in an individual, characterizing them as opposed to good, kindness, or virtue. It serves as a critical term in both biblical and classical texts to address behaviors that are detrimental to personal or communal moral standards. Lexicons such as BDAG and Thayer’s provide a nuanced understanding of how this term operates within different narrative and rhetorical frameworks, underlining its role in ethical discussions and character assessments. This word’s exploration helps illuminate the ancient perspectives on morality and the importance of virtue in personal character.