Introduction

Understanding Greek words is essential in Biblical studies, as they offer deeper insights into the meaning and context of scriptural passages. The Greek word εὖ (eu), meaning “well” or “rightly,” is significant because it is frequently used in the New Testament to convey approval, commendation, or the concept of doing something properly or effectively. This word also has cultural and philosophical importance in ancient Greek thought, where it reflects the idea of well-being and virtue.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: εὖ (eu) [EH-oo]
• Etymology: Derived from Proto-Indo-European *h₁su, which means “good” or “well.”
• Part of Speech: Adverb; it does not decline.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Well: Indicates that something is done correctly or satisfactorily.
• Rightly: Used to describe something done in a morally or logically appropriate way.
• Successfully: Sometimes implies achievement or effectiveness in action or speech.

Similar Words: ἀγαθῶς (agathos) [ah-gah-THOS], which also means “well” or “good” but is more often used to describe moral goodness or virtue in a more substantial or ethical context. While εὖ focuses on the manner or condition of an action or state, ἀγαθῶς emphasizes inherent goodness.

Further Insights: εὖ is an indeclinable adverb in Greek. This means it does not change form regardless of the grammatical case, gender, or number of the noun or verb it modifies. This simplicity allows it to be used flexibly in various contexts.

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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: εὖ is defined as an adverb meaning “well” or “rightly,” indicating proper conduct or favorable conditions. It is often used in expressions that commend someone’s actions or describe a satisfactory state of affairs.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s lexicon defines εὖ as “well, good, right,” particularly in phrases like “to do well” or “to speak well.” It emphasizes the favorable outcome or proper conduct in its usage.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Notes that εὖ is frequently used to denote doing something properly, whether in action, speech, or judgment. It often carries the idea of commendation or approval.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): The classical lexicon defines εὖ as “well” in a broad sense, from physical well-being to ethical correctness. It is often used in conjunction with verbs to indicate the manner or quality of an action.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists εὖ as “well” or “rightly,” emphasizing its use in New Testament passages to indicate moral or practical correctness.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 25:21: “His master said to him, ‘Well (εὖ) done, good and faithful servant. You were faithful over a few things; I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.’”
• Mark 7:37: “And they were astonished beyond measure, saying, ‘He has done all things well (εὖ). He makes both the deaf to hear and the mute to speak.’”
• Romans 14:21: “It is good (εὖ) not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything that makes your brother stumble.”

Classical Usage

Septuagint Examples:

Summary of εὖ (G2095)

εὖ (eu) is a versatile Greek adverb that means “well,” “rightly,” or “successfully.” It is frequently used in the New Testament to describe the quality or correctness of actions, judgments, and conditions. The word’s usage in classical Greek literature also emphasizes its importance in discussions about ethics, virtue, and proper conduct. Understanding εὖ helps in interpreting Biblical passages more accurately, as it often conveys commendation or moral approval.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the Greek adverb εὖ forms the basis of many English words like “eulogy” (a speech given in praise) and “euphoria” (a state of well-being)? Both terms derive from the idea of “speaking well” or “feeling well,” demonstrating how this small Greek word has had a big impact on modern language.