Introduction

In Biblical studies, understanding the original Greek words used in the New Testament is crucial for uncovering the depth and nuances of scripture. Each Greek word often carries a range of meanings and cultural significance that is lost in translation. The word ἐνθύμησις (enthumēsis), found in the Greek New Testament, is particularly significant as it deals with the concept of thought and deliberation, a core aspect of both spiritual reflection and ancient Greek philosophical discourse. This overview will explore the meanings, uses, and cultural contexts of ἐνθύμησις, shedding light on its importance for both New Testament interpretation and understanding ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐνθύμησις (enthumēsis) [en-THOO-mee-sis]
• Etymology Root Words and Meanings: Derived from ἐν (en, “in”) + θυμός (thumos, “mind” or “passion”).
• Part of Speech: Noun, feminine. Belongs to the third declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Reflection or deliberation — the act of considering or pondering something internally.
• Thought or inward reasoning — indicating internal cognitive processes.
• Moral consideration — referring to the contemplation of ethical or spiritual matters.

Similar Words: ἐνθύμησις is related to other Greek words like λογισμός (logismos) [lo-gis-MOS], which refers to “reasoning” or “calculation,” but while logismos often focuses on logical thought processes, ἐνθύμησις emphasizes more inward, emotional, or reflective thinking. Another similar term is διάνοια (dianoia) [dee-AN-oh-yah], which means “mind” or “understanding,” and generally covers a broader range of mental activities, from practical reasoning to contemplation.

Further Insights: The word ἐνθύμησις is formed from the preposition ἐν (en), meaning “in,” and θυμός (thumos), meaning “mind” or “soul.” This construction highlights a concept of “inward thinking” or “thoughts from within.” A notable feature is its feminine gender, which aligns with its abstract nature in Greek grammar.

Declension of ἐνθύμησις

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: ἐνθύμησις refers to internal reflection or reasoning, often involving moral or spiritual considerations. It is a term found in discussions on human introspection, especially in contexts that involve weighing right and wrong.

Thayers: Defines ἐνθύμησις as “a thinking, consideration, meditation.” Thayer emphasizes its use in the New Testament to denote deep thought or moral reasoning within oneself, often with an emotional component.

Vines: Vines Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words outlines ἐνθύμησις as “inward reasoning” or “reflection.” It is associated with the cognitive process of reasoning about one’s own actions or beliefs.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Greek-English Lexicon expands on the general use of ἐνθύμησις in classical Greek as a term for “consideration,” “deliberation,” or “thought,” particularly in ethical or philosophical contexts.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s concordance defines ἐνθύμησις as “deliberation” or “thought.” It points out that the word implies more than mere thinking; it suggests a deeper reflection that is often morally charged.

Scripture References

• Matthew 9:4 — “And Jesus knowing their thoughts (ἐνθυμήσεις) said, ‘Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts?'”
• Matthew 12:25 — “And Jesus knew their thoughts (ἐνθυμήσεις) and said unto them, ‘Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation…'”
• Acts 17:29 — “Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think (ἐνθυμήσεις) that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone…”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐνθύμησις (G1761)

ἐνθύμησις (enthumēsis) is a Greek noun that carries profound significance in the New Testament and ancient Greek literature. Its meanings range from internal reflection and deliberation to deep, moral consideration, making it a powerful word in contexts involving ethical decisions, spiritual reflection, and internal reasoning. This term provides valuable insights into the cognitive and emotional processes in human nature as understood by both Biblical writers and ancient Greek philosophers.

Did You Know?

ἐνθύμησις is not just a Biblical term but is also prominently featured in classical Greek philosophy, indicating that the concept of internal deliberation was as important to ancient thinkers like Plato and Aristotle as it was to early Christians.