Introduction
Understanding Greek words in biblical studies is essential for unlocking the full depth and meaning of scripture. The Greek word εὐψυχέω (eupsuchéō, Strong’s G2174) is particularly significant because it conveys a sense of courage, good cheer, or confidence, especially in difficult or uncertain circumstances. This word provides insight into the spiritual and emotional resilience valued by early Christians, as well as in broader Greek culture, where maintaining a positive and courageous spirit was often linked to virtue and well-being.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: εὐψυχέω (eupsuchéō) [yoo-PSOO-kheh-oh]
- Etymology: Derived from εὖ (eu, meaning “well” or “good”) and ψυχή (psychē, meaning “soul” or “spirit”), which together convey the idea of “being of good spirit” or “having courage.”
- Part of Speech: Verb. Present active indicative, first person singular.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- To be of good courage: To have a positive, resilient spirit in the face of challenges.
- To be cheerful, to be confident: Reflects an inner sense of assurance or joy, often in difficult situations.
Similar Words: θαρσέω (tharseō) [thar-SEH-oh], meaning “to take courage” or “to be of good cheer.” While θαρσέω emphasizes boldness or bravery in the face of fear, εὐψυχέω (eupsuchéō) focuses more on maintaining a good spirit or morale, especially when encouraging others.
Further Insights: As a verb, εὐψυχέω is conjugated in various forms depending on the tense and voice. Below is the present indicative conjugation for εὐψυχέω:
| Person | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Person | εὐψυχέω | εὐψυχοῦμεν |
| 2nd Person | εὐψυχέεις | εὐψυχέετε |
| 3rd Person | εὐψυχέει | εὐψυχέουσιν |
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Lexicon Insights
- BDAG: Defines εὐψυχέω as “to be of good courage,” often in contexts where someone is encouraged to maintain their morale despite adversity. It highlights its usage in both individual and communal settings where encouragement is needed.
- Thayer’s: Describes εὐψυχέω as “to be of good spirit, to be courageous,” emphasizing the word’s role in uplifting and encouraging oneself or others in difficult situations. Thayer’s notes its importance in fostering emotional and spiritual strength.
- Vine’s: Notes that εὐψυχέω means “to be of good courage, to have a cheerful spirit.” Vine’s underscores its use in exhorting believers to remain steadfast and joyful, particularly when faced with trials.
- LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon indicates that εὐψυχέω was used in classical Greek literature to mean “to be of good courage” or “to be well in mind,” frequently in military or philosophical contexts where resilience and positive spirit were crucial.
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Provides a concise definition of εὐψυχέω as “to be of good cheer, to be confident,” focusing on its application in encouraging oneself or others, particularly in the face of difficulties or uncertainties.
Related Scripture References
- Philippians 2:19 – “But I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, so that I also may be encouraged [εὐψυχήσω] when I learn of your condition.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | “Timaeus” | “The wise man is εὐψυχέων (of good spirit) in the face of adversity.” |
| Herodotus | “Histories” | “The soldiers were encouraged to εὐψυχέειν (be of good courage) as they faced the enemy.” |
| Xenophon | “Anabasis” | “Leaders must εὐψυχέειν (keep up the spirits) of their men during a long march.” |
| Septuagint | “Joshua 1:9” | “Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” The term εὐψυχέω can be seen as an equivalent expression. |
| Septuagint | “Isaiah 41:10” | “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” The word εὐψυχέω could be used to capture the essence of encouragement. |
| Septuagint | “2 Chronicles 15:7” | “But as for you, be strong and do not lose courage, for there is reward for your work.” |
Summary of εὐψυχέω (G2174: eupsuchéō)
The Greek word εὐψυχέω (eupsuchéō, Strong’s G2174) is a verb meaning “to be of good courage” or “to be cheerful.” It is used in the New Testament and other Greek literature to describe a state of maintaining a positive spirit, particularly in challenging circumstances. Understanding εὐψυχέω in biblical studies helps readers appreciate the emphasis on spiritual resilience and encouragement in early Christian teachings. Its use in classical and biblical literature reflects a broader cultural appreciation for courage and morale as vital qualities for both personal growth and communal strength.
Did You Know?
Did you know that in ancient Greek military contexts, the concept of εὐψυχέω (being of good courage) was considered crucial for a soldier’s effectiveness in battle? A soldier who could maintain a good spirit under pressure was seen as a great asset, not only for their own survival but for boosting the morale of the entire unit. In early Christian writings, this term took on a more spiritual tone, encouraging believers to maintain their faith and courage amidst trials and persecution.
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