Brief Overview of εὐεργεσία (Strong’s G2108: euergetia)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies enhances our comprehension of the depth and nuances found in the New Testament. The Greek word εὐεργεσία (euergetia), often translated as “kindness,” “beneficence,” or “good deed,” holds particular significance in Biblical contexts. This term describes acts of kindness or charitable actions, often reflecting God’s benevolent nature and the ideal Christian behavior towards others. Beyond its New Testament usage, εὐεργεσία was an important concept in ancient Greek culture, where it was highly valued in philosophical and civic contexts.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: εὐεργεσία (euergetia) [yoo-er-geh-SEE-ah]
• Etymology: Derived from εὖ (eu), meaning “well” or “good,” and ἔργον (ergon), meaning “work” or “deed.” The compound suggests “doing good works” or “acts of beneficence.”
• Part of Speech: Noun, feminine; first declension. The term is used in contexts describing acts of kindness, charity, or good works.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Kindness: Refers to acts of generosity or compassion towards others.
• Beneficence: Describes the quality of doing good or performing kind deeds.
• Good Deed: A specific act of charity or kindness performed for another person.

Similar Words: ἐλεημοσύνη (eleēmosynē) [el-eh-ay-mos-OO-nay], meaning “almsgiving” or “charitable giving.” While εὐεργεσία emphasizes the quality of kindness or beneficence, ἐλεημοσύνη specifically refers to acts of giving to the needy, often as a form of piety.

Further Insights: εὐεργεσία is a feminine noun in the first declension, which follows a standard pattern in Greek grammar. Below is a table showing its full declension:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: εὐεργεσία is defined as “good deed” or “kindness,” especially in the context of showing generosity or acting benevolently toward others. It can denote both a single act of kindness and a general disposition of being generous.

Thayer’s: εὐεργεσία means “kindness” or “beneficence.” Thayer emphasizes its use in describing actions that are beneficial or helpful to others, often reflecting a Christian virtue of charity.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary: εὐεργεσία is defined as “a good deed” or “beneficence,” focusing on the active aspect of kindness or charity. Vine’s notes that this term is used to describe a character that is consistently doing good.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): εὐεργεσία is listed as “beneficence” or “kindness.” The lexicon notes its broad application in classical Greek to describe acts of generosity or benevolence, whether personal, political, or divine.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: εὐεργεσία (G2108) is defined as “kindness” or “beneficence.” It is a compound of εὖ (eu) and ἔργον (ergon), suggesting well-doing or good works.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 4:9: “If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness (εὐεργεσία) shown to a man who was lame and are being asked how he was healed…”

Classical Usage

Summary of εὐεργεσία (G2108)

εὐεργεσία (euergetia) is a significant Greek noun that primarily means “kindness,” “beneficence,” or “good deed.” It is used in the New Testament to express acts of charity, compassion, and kindness, especially in the context of Christian virtues and behavior. The word has rich implications, as it underscores a lifestyle marked by generosity and concern for others. Its usage in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature illustrates its relevance and continuity as a vital moral and ethical concept from ancient Greek culture to Christian teachings.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the word εὐεργεσία (euergetia) was a fundamental concept in ancient Greek society, often associated with civic duty and public service? Wealthy citizens were expected to perform acts of beneficence, such as funding public works or supporting the arts, which not only benefited the community but also elevated their social status and reputation. This tradition is reflected in the New Testament, where Christians are encouraged to show kindness and generosity as a reflection of God’s own benevolence toward humanity.