Brief Overview of Εὐοδία (Strong’s G2136: Euodía)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies because it allows readers to delve deeper into the meaning, context, and cultural significance of the Scriptures. The Greek word Εὐοδία (Euodía) is particularly significant because it is the name of a woman mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the context of early Christian communities. This word reflects not only the personal identity of an early Christian figure but also the broader cultural implications of names in ancient Greek society. Studying Εὐοδία provides insight into the role and recognition of women in the early Church and highlights the importance of unity and harmony among believers.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: Εὐοδία (Euodía) [yoo-oh-DEE-ah]
• Etymology: Derived from εὖ (eu), meaning “good” or “well,” and ὁδός (hodos), meaning “way” or “road.” Together, they imply “good journey” or “prosperous way.”
• Part of Speech: Proper noun; feminine name.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Good journey
• Prosperous way
• Successful path

Similar Words: The word Εὐοδία is related to εὐθυδία (euthydía), meaning “straight path” or “correct way.” While both terms involve the concept of a journey or path, εὐθυδία emphasizes the straightness or correctness of a way, whereas Εὐοδία focuses on prosperity and success. Another related word is εὐπραγία (eupragía), meaning “well-being” or “success,” which conveys a broader sense of overall prosperity and fortune.

Further Insights:
Morphologically, Εὐοδία is a feminine proper noun of the first declension. As a name, it carries positive connotations and reflects the cultural practice of giving names that invoke blessings or positive outcomes, common in both ancient Greek and Jewish traditions.

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

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
BDAG defines Εὐοδία as a feminine proper noun meaning “good journey” or “prosperous way.” It is noted as the name of a woman mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in Philippians 4:2, where she is urged, along with Syntyche, to live in harmony in the Lord.

Support our Israeli friends

Use code: FOG20 for a 20% discount.

Learn More

Thayer’s:
Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon describes Εὐοδία as “a prosperous journey” or “a good way,” highlighting its use as a personal name. Thayer’s notes its significance in the context of Philippians, where Paul encourages unity and reconciliation among believers.

Vines:
Vines Expository Dictionary explains Εὐοδία as a name meaning “good journey” or “prosperous way.” It emphasizes the importance of this name in conveying a positive and hopeful message, reflecting the early Christian community’s values of harmony and collective well-being.

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) lexicon provides a classical understanding of Εὐοδία as “good progress” or “successful path.” While primarily used as a proper name in the New Testament, the components of the name convey meanings related to favorable outcomes and positive endeavors.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance lists Εὐοδία as meaning “good journey” or “prosperous way.” It highlights its occurrence in Philippians and underscores its relevance in the context of exhortation for peace and unity among believers.

Related Scripture References

• Philippians 4:2: “I urge Euodia (Εὐοδίαν) and I urge Syntyche to live in harmony in the Lord.”

Classical Usage

Septuagint Usage

Summary of Εὐοδία (G2136: Euodía)

The Greek word Εὐοδία (Euodía) is a feminine proper noun meaning “good journey” or “prosperous way.” It is derived from εὖ (“good”) and ὁδός (“way”), emphasizing a journey or path that is blessed and successful. Lexicons such as BDAG, Thayer’s, Vines, LSJ, and Strong’s provide insights into its use as a name in the New Testament, particularly in Philippians, where it symbolizes unity, reconciliation, and positive relationships within the Christian community. In classical Greek literature and the Septuagint, Εὐοδία is also associated with favorable journeys, both literal and metaphorical, reflecting the cultural value placed on harmony and well-being.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the name Εὐοδία not only signifies a “good journey” but also embodies the early Christian ethos of unity and harmony? The name serves as a reminder that the path of faith is one that should be walked together, with peace and reconciliation guiding the way!