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Introduction
Understanding Greek words like Εὔβουλος (Euboulos) is crucial in Biblical studies as they provide a deeper insight into the early Christian community and the people mentioned within the New Testament. Euboulos is a proper noun that refers to an individual named in the New Testament, specifically in the Pauline Epistles. This name is not only significant for interpreting biblical narratives but also provides a glimpse into the naming conventions and cultural influences of the time, bridging our understanding between ancient Greek culture and early Christian traditions.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: Εὔβουλος (Euboulos) [YOO-boo-los]
- Etymology: Derived from the Greek roots εὖ (eu), meaning “good” or “well,” and βουλή (boulē), meaning “counsel” or “advice.” Thus, the name Εὔβουλος translates to “Good Counselor” or “Well-Advised.”
- Part of Speech: Proper noun (masculine); it is a second declension noun in Greek grammar.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Good Counselor: A person who provides wise and beneficial advice.
- Well-Advised: Someone who is characterized by sound judgment and prudent decisions.
Similar Words: Βούλη (Boulē) [BOO-lee], meaning “counsel” or “plan.” While βουλή refers specifically to “counsel” or “a council” in general terms, Εὔβουλος incorporates the idea of being “good” or “well” in counsel, distinguishing it as a proper name associated with positive qualities of wisdom and guidance.
Further Insights: Εὔβουλος follows the second declension pattern in Greek grammar, where the nominative singular ends in -ος. Understanding its declension is important for interpreting the grammatical context in which it appears in New Testament texts. Here is a table showing the full declension of Εὔβουλος:
| Case / Number | Singular |
|---|---|
| Nominative | Εὔβουλος (Euboulos) |
| Genitive | Εὐβούλου (Euboulou) |
| Dative | Εὐβούλῳ (Euboulō) |
| Accusative | Εὔβουλον (Euboulon) |
| Vocative | Εὔβουλε (Euboule) |
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Lexicon Insights
BDAG: The lexicon identifies Εὔβουλος as a proper name, referring to a companion of the Apostle Paul mentioned in the closing remarks of 2 Timothy. The name implies someone who gives “good counsel.”
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Thayer’s: Εὔβουλος is noted as a proper masculine noun. Thayer’s mentions its etymology, “good counsel,” and links the word to the New Testament context where it is used.
Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Vine’s lists Εὔβουλος under proper names and suggests that it reflects a characteristic trait, possibly indicating someone recognized for their wisdom or good advice.
LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Εὔβουλος is cataloged as a personal name, translating to “Good Counselor.” The lexicon notes that it is derived from classical Greek roots that denote wisdom and counsel.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Εὔβουλος (G2103) is defined as “Good Counselor,” a masculine proper noun. Strong’s highlights its single occurrence in the New Testament and provides the transliteration and pronunciation.
Related Scripture References
- 2 Timothy 4:21: “Make every effort to come before winter. Eubulus [Εὔβουλος] greets you, also Pudens and Linus and Claudia and all the brethren.”
Classical Usage
Εὔβουλος is not commonly found in classical Greek literature as a standalone word, but its components εὖ (eu) and βουλή (boulē) were widely used in ancient texts. Below are examples showing the use of these roots in classical Greek:
| Author | Name of Work | English text |
|---|---|---|
| Herodotus | Histories | “And they gave good (εὖ) counsel (βουλή).” |
| Plato | Republic | “Let us take good counsel (εὖ βουλὴν) on what is best for the city.” |
| Septuagint (LXX) | Psalms | “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel (βουλῇ) of the ungodly.” (Psalm 1:1) |
Summary of Εὔβουλος (G2103)
Εὔβουλος (Euboulos) is a proper noun appearing in the New Testament, specifically in 2 Timothy 4:21. The name means “Good Counselor” or “Well-Advised,” derived from the Greek roots εὖ (good, well) and βουλή (counsel, advice). This word not only carries the connotation of wise counsel but also provides a glimpse into the names and characteristics valued within early Christian communities. The word is of particular interest in biblical studies due to its singular reference in the New Testament and its connection to the Apostle Paul’s companions.
Did You Know?
Did you know that Εὔβουλος (Euboulos) is one of the lesser-known companions of the Apostle Paul? Although mentioned only once in the New Testament, the name reflects a deep cultural and spiritual emphasis on wisdom and good counsel, which were highly valued traits in both Greek and early Christian contexts.
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