Introduction

Understanding Greek words in biblical studies provides deeper insights into the meanings and contexts behind scriptural texts. The Greek word εὐσεβῶς (eusebōs, Strong’s G2153) is particularly significant as it relates to acting in a pious or devout manner. Its use in the New Testament gives us a better understanding of how early Christians were expected to live out their faith, while its presence in ancient Greek literature reveals broader cultural attitudes toward reverence and proper conduct.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: εὐσεβῶς (eusebōs) [yoo-se-BOCE]
• Etymology: Derived from εὐσεβής (eusebēs, meaning “pious” or “godly”), which comes from εὖ (eu, meaning “well” or “good”) and σέβω (sebō, meaning “to revere” or “worship”).
• Part of Speech: Adverb. Used to describe the manner in which an action is performed.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Piously, devoutly: Refers to acting in a way that demonstrates reverence, devotion, or godliness.
• In a godly manner: Indicates a lifestyle or action characterized by respect toward God and religious principles.

Similar Words: θεοσεβῶς (theosebōs) [theh-oh-se-BOCE] also means “piously” or “devoutly,” but it emphasizes reverence specifically toward God (theos). Meanwhile, ὁσίως (hosiōs) [HO-see-oce] means “holily” or “purely,” focusing more on moral purity and righteousness than on religious devotion.

Further Insights: As an adverb, εὐσεβῶς modifies verbs to describe actions done in a devout or pious manner. Its use in New Testament writings is relatively rare, emphasizing the quality of religious actions rather than simply the state of being pious. There is no declension table for adverbs like εὐσεβῶς since they do not change form based on case, number, or gender.

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Describes εὐσεβῶς as “piously, devoutly,” used in contexts where a person’s actions reflect their deep reverence or devotion, particularly toward God. It underscores the significance of the manner in which one lives out religious principles.
• Thayer’s: Defines εὐσεβῶς as “in a godly or devout manner,” relating it to a lifestyle that is consistent with one’s religious beliefs. Thayer’s highlights its relevance to early Christian teachings about godly conduct.
• Vine’s: Notes that εὐσεβῶς is used to describe “godly” behavior or actions performed in a reverent manner. Vine’s associates it with living in a way that honors God and adheres to religious duties.
• LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon shows that εὐσεβῶς was used in classical literature to mean “reverently” or “with due respect,” especially in religious or ethical contexts, reflecting the importance of piety in ancient Greek society.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Provides a concise definition of εὐσεβῶς as “piously,” focusing on its use to describe actions that exhibit piety or religious devotion.

Related Scripture References

• 2 Timothy 3:12 – “Indeed, all who desire to live godly [εὐσεβῶς] in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”

Classical Usage

Summary of εὐσεβῶς (G2153: eusebōs)

The Greek word εὐσεβῶς (eusebōs, Strong’s G2153) is an adverb that emphasizes the quality of actions done in a devout, reverent, or godly manner. It is used sparingly in the New Testament but carries significant weight in the context of how early Christians and Jews were expected to conduct themselves. Its use in both biblical and classical literature highlights the importance of living piously, reflecting the value placed on godliness and reverence in both ancient Greek and early Christian societies.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the concept of living “εὐσεβῶς” was not only limited to religious practices but also extended to social behaviors in ancient Greece? For example, acting piously was considered essential in maintaining harmony within the city-state and honoring family traditions.