Brief Overview of εὐλάβεια (Strong’s G2124: eulábeia)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies as it allows us to dive deeper into the meanings behind the original texts and to better grasp the cultural and theological contexts of the early Christian era. The Greek word εὐλάβεια (eulábeia) is particularly significant because it conveys the concept of “reverence” or “godly fear,” which is a fundamental aspect of spiritual life in the New Testament. By exploring εὐλάβεια, we gain insight into how early Christians understood the importance of reverence toward God, bridging our understanding of both ancient Greek culture and early Christian theology.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: εὐλάβεια (eulábeia) [yoo-LAH-vay-ah]
• Etymology: Derived from εὖ (eu), meaning “well” or “good,” and λάβος (labos), meaning “caution” or “taking hold.” Together, they signify “well-grasped” or “careful handling,” metaphorically implying reverence or caution.
• Part of Speech: Noun; first declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Reverence
• Godly fear
• Piety
• Caution

Similar Words: The word εὐλάβεια is related to φόβος (phobos), meaning “fear,” but differs in that εὐλάβεια emphasizes a respectful and cautious attitude, particularly in relation to divine matters. Another related word is σεβασμός (sebasmos), which also conveys a sense of reverence but leans more toward awe and worship rather than the caution and care implied by εὐλάβεια.

Further Insights:
Morphologically, εὐλάβεια is a first-declension feminine noun. Its formation from εὖ (eu) and λάβος (labos) reflects a compound meaning, implying careful handling or reverence. This concept of “well-grasped” fear underlines a thoughtful and intentional approach to reverence, rather than an instinctive or purely emotional reaction.

Click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
BDAG defines εὐλάβεια as “reverence” or “piety,” particularly in the context of a devout attitude towards God. It emphasizes carefulness and caution in religious matters, reflecting an attitude of humble respect and proper behavior before God.

Thayer’s:
Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon describes εὐλάβεια as “godly fear” or “reverence,” highlighting its use in the New Testament to denote an appropriate response to the divine, characterized by caution and a proper sense of respect.

Vines:
Vines Expository Dictionary provides insight into εὐλάβεια as “reverence” or “piety.” It explains that the word is used to express a healthy fear of God, one that stems from understanding His holiness and majesty.

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) lexicon offers a classical perspective on εὐλάβεια, defining it as “caution” or “reverence,” with usage in secular Greek literature to describe a careful, respectful approach to the gods or sacred matters.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance lists εὐλάβεια as meaning “reverence” or “piety.” It is used to convey a sense of godly fear, underscoring the seriousness and sincerity in one’s approach to worship and spiritual life.

Related Scripture References

• Hebrews 5:7: “Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared (εὐλαβείας).”
• Acts 23:10: “And when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest Paul should have been pulled in pieces of them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from among them, and to bring him into the castle.”

Classical Usage

Septuagint Usage

Summary of εὐλάβεια (G2124: eulábeia)

The Greek word εὐλάβεια (eulábeia) is a noun meaning “reverence,” “godly fear,” or “piety.” It is derived from εὖ (“well”) and λάβος (“caution”), indicating a well-grasped or cautious attitude toward divine matters. Lexicons such as BDAG, Thayer’s, Vines, LSJ, and Strong’s offer a comprehensive understanding of the term, highlighting its significance in expressing a thoughtful and sincere approach to worship and spiritual life. In both the New Testament and classical Greek literature, εὐλάβεια underscores the importance of reverence, caution, and respect in one’s relationship with the divine.

Did You Know?

Did you know that in ancient Greek culture, εὐλάβεια was considered essential not only for religious practices but also for daily life? It was believed that showing εὐλάβεια, or proper reverence and caution, could bring favor from the gods and ensure a harmonious community!