Introduction:

Understanding Greek adjectives like εἰλικρινής (eilikrinḗs) is crucial for interpreting the moral and ethical teachings in the New Testament. This word, often translated as “sincere” or “pure,” captures the essence of integrity and honesty that is central to Christian character and conduct. The term εἰλικρινής not only reflects the moral expectations of believers but also resonates with broader ancient Greek cultural values surrounding transparency and authenticity. By examining this word, we can gain a deeper understanding of the ideals of sincerity and purity that were important both in the early Christian communities and in Greek society at large.

Key Information:

• Greek Word: εἰλικρινής (eilikrinḗs) [ay-lee-kree-NAYS]
• Etymology: Derived from the compound of εἵλη (hélē, “sunlight”) and κρίνω (krínō, “to judge”), suggesting that something can be judged by sunlight, i.e., something that is pure or clear.
• Part of Speech: Adjective (third declension)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings:

• Sincere
• Pure
• Honest
• Unmixed or unadulterated

Similar Words:

• ἁγνός (hagnós) [hag-NOS]: A similar adjective meaning “pure” or “chaste,” often used in contexts related to moral purity or ceremonial cleanness.
• ἀληθινός (alēthinós) [al-ay-thee-NOS]: Meaning “true” or “genuine,” this word emphasizes authenticity and can be used to describe both objects and character.
• ἀκέραιος (akéraios) [ah-KE-rah-yos]: Translated as “innocent” or “blameless,” this word focuses on the idea of being untainted by corruption or malice.

Further Insights:

• Morphology:
• εἰλικρινής is an adjective that follows the third declension pattern in Greek. It is used to describe a person or thing that is free from deceit, corruption, or impurities.
• Adjective Declension: As a third declension adjective, εἰλικρινής exhibits variations based on case, gender, and number.

Lexicon Insights:

BDAG:
BDAG defines εἰλικρινής as “sincere,” “pure,” or “without deceit.” The lexicon emphasizes its use in contexts where moral and spiritual integrity are being highlighted, particularly in the New Testament passages that call for believers to live blamelessly before God and others.

Thayer’s:
Thayer’s lexicon notes that εἰλικρινής refers to a state of being “pure” or “unmixed,” implying that something is not only free from contamination but also genuine in its nature. Thayer’s underscores the word’s role in describing the ethical and spiritual purity expected of believers.

Vine’s:
Vine’s Expository Dictionary discusses εἰλικρινής in terms of its ethical significance, noting that it is used to describe those who are sincere in their faith and conduct. Vine’s highlights the word’s connection to the idea of being tested and found pure, much like how sunlight reveals imperfections.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones):
The LSJ lexicon traces εἰλικρινής to its classical Greek usage, where it described something that was pure, unadulterated, or transparent. LSJ notes that in both philosophical and everyday contexts, εἰλικρινής was used to describe materials, character, and intentions that were genuine and free from deceit.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance lists εἰλικρινής as meaning “sincere” or “pure,” and notes its importance in New Testament exhortations to live with integrity and honesty. Strong’s highlights that this word captures the essence of what it means to be morally and spiritually unblemished.

Scripture References:

• Philippians 1:10: “So that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure (εἰλικρινής) and blameless for the day of Christ.”
• 2 Peter 3:1: “This is now the second letter that I am writing to you, beloved. In both of them, I am stirring up your sincere (εἰλικρινής) mind by way of reminder.”

Classical Usage:

Summary of εἰλικρινής (G1506: eilikrinḗs)

The Greek adjective εἰλικρινής (eilikrinḗs), meaning “sincere” or “pure,” plays a crucial role in the New Testament’s moral teachings. This word encapsulates the ideals of honesty, integrity, and moral purity that were expected of believers in the early Christian communities. Its use extends beyond mere ethical behavior to encompass the entire character of a person who is genuine, untainted by deceit, and transparent in their actions. In classical Greek literature, εἰλικρινής was similarly valued as a descriptor of both personal character and the quality of materials or actions, underscoring its importance in ancient Greek culture as well.

Did You Know?

The word εἰλικρινής is derived from the Greek words for “sunlight” and “judgment,” metaphorically suggesting that something truly sincere or pure can withstand being examined in full light. This etymology reflects the ancient Greek belief that moral integrity and sincerity must be transparent and able to endure scrutiny, much like how the light of the sun reveals every detail of what it touches.