Introduction

Understanding Greek words is vital in Biblical studies because it allows for a deeper exploration of the meanings behind the Scriptures and the cultural and theological context of the early Christian era. The Greek word εὐλογητός (eulogētos) is particularly significant as it is commonly translated as “blessed” and is often used to describe God, especially in doxologies and prayers. This word is crucial for interpreting passages that speak of divine praise and acknowledgment. Exploring εὐλογητός provides insights into how blessings and praise were understood in both the New Testament and ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: εὐλογητός (eulogētos) [yoo-lo-GAY-tos]
• Etymology: Derived from εὖ (eu), meaning “well” or “good,” and λογέω (logeō), a derivative of λέγω (legō), meaning “to speak.” The term essentially means “well-spoken of” or “praised.”
• Part of Speech: Adjective; first and second declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Blessed
• Praised
• Worthy of praise

Similar Words: The word εὐλογητός is related to μακαρίος (makarios), meaning “blessed” or “happy.” While both terms can be translated as “blessed,” εὐλογητός is more often used in a liturgical or doxological context to refer specifically to God or divine blessings, whereas μακαρίος refers more to the state of being blessed or fortunate. Another related word is ἐγκωμιαστός (enkōmiastos), which means “praised” or “commendable,” but it lacks the spiritual connotations of divine favor inherent in εὐλογητός.

Further Insights:
Morphologically, εὐλογητός is an adjective that follows the patterns of the first and second declension. It is used to describe something or someone who is blessed or worthy of praise, particularly in relation to divine beings or actions.

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

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
BDAG defines εὐλογητός as “praised” or “blessed,” specifically referring to God or divine actions that are worthy of praise. It emphasizes its usage in contexts where the glory or worthiness of God is being acknowledged.

Thayer’s:
Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon describes εὐλογητός as “blessed” or “worthy of praise,” particularly in reference to divine attributes. It notes that the term is used primarily in doxologies to express divine praise.

Vines:
Vines Expository Dictionary explains εὐλογητός as “blessed” or “praised,” underscoring its use in worship and prayer settings where God’s actions or nature are being lauded.

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) lexicon provides a broader classical understanding of εὐλογητός, defining it as “praised” or “commendable.” It also mentions that the term was used in secular Greek literature to describe someone who is well-regarded or spoken of highly.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance lists εὐλογητός as meaning “blessed” or “praised.” It is used to highlight the worthiness of God or divine acts that inspire worship and reverence.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 1:68: “Blessed (εὐλογητός) be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people.”
• 2 Corinthians 1:3: “Blessed (εὐλογητός) be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort.”
• 1 Peter 1:3: “Blessed (εὐλογητός) be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”

Classical Usage

Septuagint Usage

Summary of εὐλογητός (G2128: eulogētos)

The Greek word εὐλογητός (eulogētos) is an adjective meaning “blessed,” “praised,” or “worthy of praise.” It is derived from εὖ (“well”) and λογέω (“to speak”), signifying someone or something that is well spoken of or deserving of praise. Lexicons such as BDAG, Thayer’s, Vines, LSJ, and Strong’s provide a comprehensive understanding of εὐλογητός, emphasizing its role in expressing divine blessing and praise, especially in liturgical contexts. In both the New Testament and classical Greek literature, εὐλογητός is a term that underscores the acknowledgment of divine worthiness and the act of offering praise.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the use of εὐλογητός in ancient Greek culture was not limited to religious contexts? While primarily used in Scripture to praise God, it was also employed in classical literature to commend leaders, philosophers, and heroes, showing the broad application of expressing praise and acknowledgment of worth!