Brief Overview of εὐάρεστος (Strong’s G2101: euárestos)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words such as εὐάρεστος (euárestos) is vital for interpreting the New Testament and for gaining insights into the thought and culture of the ancient Greek world. The word εὐάρεστος carries deep theological and moral significance, particularly when it comes to describing actions, behaviors, or qualities that are pleasing to God. Studying this word sheds light on the expectations of early Christian communities and the values they held dear.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: εὐάρεστος (euárestos) [yoo-AR-es-tos]
• Etymology: Derived from the Greek prefix εὐ- (eu-), meaning “good” or “well,” and ἀρεστός (arestos), meaning “pleasing” or “agreeable.” Together, the word εὐάρεστος means “well-pleasing.”
• Part of Speech: Adjective; it describes a noun by attributing the quality of being “well-pleasing.” It follows the second declension pattern in Greek grammar.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Well-Pleasing: Describes something that is highly acceptable or agreeable, especially to God.
• Pleasing or Agreeable: Denotes a quality or action that is satisfactory or delightful in the sight of God or others.
• Favorable: Indicates something or someone that earns approval or favor.

Similar Words: ἀρεστός (arestos) [ah-RES-tos], which also means “pleasing” or “agreeable.” While ἀρεστός can generally refer to anything that is pleasing, εὐάρεστος specifically amplifies this idea to mean “well-pleasing,” often in a moral or spiritual context.

Further Insights: εὐάρεστος is an adjective that follows the second declension pattern in Greek. Here is a declension table for εὐάρεστος in the masculine, feminine, and neuter forms:

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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Defines εὐάρεστος as “well-pleasing, acceptable.” It is frequently used to denote that which is pleasing to God, specifically describing actions or behaviors that align with divine expectations.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s lexicon elaborates on εὐάρεστος as “well-pleasing, acceptable,” particularly to God. It highlights its usage in ethical and moral contexts where individuals or actions meet divine approval.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Describes εὐάρεστος as “well-pleasing” and notes its use in passages urging believers to live in a manner that is pleasing to the Lord, emphasizing both moral conduct and spiritual devotion.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): In classical literature, εὐάρεστος is used to describe something that is pleasing or agreeable, often in secular contexts. However, in Christian texts, its usage becomes more specialized, referring to that which pleases God.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines εὐάρεστος as “well-pleasing” or “acceptable,” specifically in relation to divine approval. It is noted for its appearances in texts where a high standard of moral and ethical behavior is emphasized.

Related Scripture References

• Romans 12:1: “Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable [εὐάρεστον] to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.”
• Colossians 3:20: “Children, be obedient to your parents in all things, for this is well-pleasing [εὐάρεστος] to the Lord.”
• Ephesians 5:10: “Trying to learn what is pleasing [εὐάρεστος] to the Lord.”

Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, εὐάρεστος is occasionally found in works that discuss virtues and behaviors pleasing to gods or rulers. Below are examples from classical Greek literature and the Septuagint:

Summary of εὐάρεστος (G2101)

The Greek word εὐάρεστος (euárestos) means “well-pleasing” or “acceptable,” especially in a moral or spiritual sense. Derived from εὐ- (“good, well”) and ἀρεστός (“pleasing”), it is often used in the New Testament to describe behaviors, actions, or qualities that align with divine expectations. The word appears in several key passages, emphasizing a life that is well-pleasing to God. Its usage in classical Greek literature, while less common, still conveys a sense of something that is highly agreeable or favorable.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the Greek word εὐάρεστος (euárestos) is not only significant in Christian texts but also appears in philosophical discussions about what constitutes the ideal way of life? The concept of being “well-pleasing” reflects an aspiration to live in harmony with divine and moral laws, bridging both ancient Greek culture and early Christian ethics.