Brief Overview of εὐποιΐα (Strong’s G2140: eupoiía)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is vital in Biblical studies because it reveals the depth and richness of meanings embedded in the Scriptures. The Greek word εὐποιΐα (eupoiía) is particularly significant because it conveys the idea of doing good or benevolence. This term appears in the New Testament within the context of ethical and moral behavior, highlighting the importance of good deeds and generosity. Studying εὐποιΐα provides insight into the values upheld by early Christians and how these values were rooted in the broader cultural norms of ancient Greek society.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: εὐποιΐα (eupoiía) [yoo-poy-EE-ah]
• Etymology: Derived from εὖ (eu), meaning “well” or “good,” and ποιέω (poieō), meaning “to do” or “to make.” Together, they convey the sense of “doing good” or “benevolent action.”
• Part of Speech: Noun; feminine, first declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Beneficence
• Good works
• Acts of kindness
• Benevolence

Similar Words: The word εὐποιΐα is related to εὐεργεσία (euergesía), meaning “good deed” or “benefit.” While both terms involve doing good, εὐποιΐα emphasizes the overall quality or state of benevolence, whereas εὐεργεσία focuses more specifically on the acts or deeds themselves. Another related word is φιλανθρωπία (philanthrōpía), meaning “love of mankind” or “charity,” which encompasses a broader sense of kindness and humanitarian concern.

Further Insights:
Morphologically, εὐποιΐα is a feminine noun of the first declension. It describes a state or quality of doing good or being benevolent, often in a moral or ethical context.

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

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
BDAG defines εὐποιΐα as “doing good” or “beneficence,” emphasizing actions that reflect kindness, charity, and moral goodness. It is often used in the context of ethical teachings that encourage believers to engage in acts of kindness and support.

Thayer’s:
Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon describes εὐποιΐα as “well-doing” or “beneficence,” highlighting its New Testament use in Hebrews 13:16, where it is associated with the sacrificial aspects of doing good and sharing with others as expressions of Christian love.

Vines:
Vines Expository Dictionary explains εὐποιΐα as “well-doing,” particularly in the sense of showing kindness or providing help to others. Vines notes that the word conveys an attitude of continual benevolence and moral action.

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) lexicon provides a classical perspective on εὐποιΐα, defining it as “beneficence” or “good conduct.” In classical literature, the term was often used in philosophical discussions on virtue and the ethical duty to contribute positively to society.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance lists εὐποιΐα as meaning “well-doing” or “beneficence.” It highlights the term’s usage in ethical contexts within the New Testament, where it underscores the importance of generosity and benevolent actions among believers.

Related Scripture References

• Hebrews 13:16: “And do not neglect doing good (εὐποιΐας) and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”

Classical Usage

Septuagint Usage

Summary of εὐποιΐα (G2140: eupoiía)

The Greek word εὐποιΐα (eupoiía) is a noun meaning “beneficence,” “good works,” or “acts of kindness.” Derived from εὖ (“good”) and ποιέω (“to do”), it emphasizes the idea of engaging in actions that reflect kindness, generosity, and moral goodness. Lexicons such as BDAG, Thayer’s, Vines, LSJ, and Strong’s provide comprehensive insights into its use in the New Testament and classical literature, where it describes the virtue of doing good and the importance of benevolence in ethical and religious contexts. In both biblical and classical settings, εὐποιΐα reflects the cultural and spiritual values of contributing positively to society and caring for others.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the concept of εὐποιΐα was highly valued in both ancient Greek philosophy and early Christian teachings? It represents a timeless call to act with kindness and compassion, reinforcing the idea that doing good is both a moral duty and a spiritual sacrifice pleasing to God!