ἀγαθωσύνη – Pronunciation Guide: ah-gah-tho-SOO-nay

Basic Definition

Strong’s G19: Intrinsic goodness expressing itself in active benevolence and moral excellence. This is not merely passive goodness but a dynamic quality that seeks to benefit others through concrete actions and upright character.

Word Study

• Part of Speech: Feminine Noun
• Root: ἀγαθός (agathos), meaning “good”

Morphology:

• ἀγαθωσύνη (nominative singular) – active goodness
• ἀγαθωσύνης (genitive singular) – of active goodness
• ἀγαθωσύνῃ (dative singular) – by/with active goodness
• ἀγαθωσύνην (accusative singular) – active goodness (direct object)

Word Origin & History

ἀγαθωσύνη is derived from the more common adjective ἀγαθός (agathos), but the addition of the -σύνη suffix transforms it into an abstract noun denoting quality or state of being. This construction is relatively rare in classical Greek literature, appearing more frequently in biblical and ecclesiastical texts.

The word emerged in the Hellenistic period, showing particular prominence in the Septuagint where it was used to translate Hebrew concepts of טוּב (tov) and חֶסֶד (chesed), connecting it deeply with God’s covenant faithfulness and practical expressions of loving-kindness.

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἀγαθωσύνη appears only four times, exclusively in Paul’s letters. Each usage emphasizes the active, practical nature of goodness as a fruit of the Spirit rather than mere moral correctness.

Key Passages:

• Galatians 5:22 – Listed among the fruit of the Spirit
• Romans 15:14 – Paul’s confidence in Roman believers’ goodness
• Ephesians 5:9 – Fruit of light described
• 2 Thessalonians 1:11 – God’s power fulfilling every desire for goodness

Cultural Insights

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of goodness was often tied to social status and civic virtue. However, the biblical usage of ἀγαθωσύνη transcended social boundaries, describing a divine quality that could be manifested in any believer regardless of their social standing, revolutionizing ancient understanding of moral excellence.

Theological Significance

ἀγαθωσύνη represents more than moral correctness; it embodies the active, intentional expression of God’s character through human conduct. As a fruit of the Spirit, it demonstrates that true goodness is supernatural in origin, flowing from the indwelling presence of God rather than human effort.

This word helps us understand sanctification as both positional and practical. It shows how the Holy Spirit produces in believers a goodness that mirrors God’s own character while expressing itself in tangible acts of kindness and righteousness.

Personal Application

When we grasp the active nature of ἀγαθωσύνη, it challenges us to move beyond passive morality to intentional expressions of goodness. This might mean actively seeking opportunities to show kindness, initiating reconciliation, or taking concrete steps to benefit others even when it’s costly or inconvenient.

Related Words

• χρηστότης (chrēstotēs) – kindness, especially as an expression of moral goodness – See G5544
• ἀρετή (aretē) – moral excellence, virtue – See G703
• δικαιοσύνη (dikaiosynē) – righteousness – See G1343

Did You Know?

• The suffix -σύνη appears in only seven New Testament words, making ἀγαθωσύνη part of an exclusive word group.
• Modern Greek still uses this word in ecclesiastical contexts, particularly in Orthodox liturgy.
• The word’s rarity in classical Greek suggests its special development within biblical literature to express distinctly Christian concepts.

Remember This

ἀγαθωσύνη is God’s goodness in action – not just being good, but doing good.