Introduction

In Biblical studies, understanding Greek words like εὐαρεστέω (euaresteō) is essential for interpreting the New Testament and gaining insight into early Christian teachings and practices. The word εὐαρεστέω carries significant theological weight as it conveys the concept of “pleasing” or “being well-pleased,” especially in relation to God. Grasping its meanings and nuances provides a deeper understanding of the values and ideals emphasized in ancient Greek culture and early Christian communities.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: εὐαρεστέω (euaresteō) [yoo-ar-es-TEH-oh]
• Etymology: Derived from the Greek prefix εὐ- (eu-), meaning “good” or “well,” and ἀρεσκω (areskō), meaning “to please.” Together, the word εὐαρεστέω means “to be well-pleased” or “to please well.”
• Part of Speech: Verb; present active indicative form. The verb belongs to the first conjugation group in Greek grammar.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To Be Pleasing: Generally used to indicate a state of being pleasing to someone, particularly God.
• To Act in a Way that Pleases: Implies performing actions or living in a manner that is pleasing or acceptable.
• To Delight: To cause delight or satisfaction, especially in a divine context.

Similar Words: ἀρεσκω (areskō) [ah-RES-koh], which means “to please.” While ἀρεσκω refers to the act of pleasing in general, εὐαρεστέω emphasizes a higher degree of being well-pleased, often implying divine approval or satisfaction.

Further Insights: εὐαρεστέω is a verb in the present active indicative form, which denotes a continuous or repeated action. The word can be conjugated to indicate various tenses and voices. Here is a simplified conjugation table for εὐαρεστέω in the present indicative:

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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Describes εὐαρεστέω as “to be pleasing” or “to act in a way that pleases,” with a strong focus on divine pleasure. It is used primarily in contexts where actions, behaviors, or lifestyles are evaluated against divine standards.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s lexicon defines εὐαρεστέω as “to be well-pleasing,” particularly in reference to God or a deity. The lexicon emphasizes that the word often carries a moral or ethical connotation, implying conduct that aligns with divine expectations.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Vine’s notes that εὐαρεστέω conveys the idea of pleasing God through faith, good works, and ethical conduct. It highlights the word’s usage in key New Testament texts where believers are encouraged to live in a manner that pleases God.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): In classical contexts, εὐαρεστέω is understood as “to be pleasing” or “to win favor,” but it is less frequently used than in Christian writings. The term appears more prominently in religious or moral discussions.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists εὐαρεστέω as Strong’s G2100, defining it as “to be well-pleasing” or “to gratify.” It cross-references other related terms such as εὐαρεστός (well-pleasing) to illustrate its usage in contexts of divine favor or approval.

Related Scripture References

• Hebrews 11:6: “And without faith it is impossible to please [εὐαρεστῆσαι] Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.”
• Colossians 1:10: “So that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please [εὐαρεστεῖν] Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.”
• 1 Thessalonians 4:1: “Finally then, brethren, we request and exhort you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us instruction as to how you ought to walk and please [εὐαρεστεῖν] God, just as you actually do walk, that you excel still more.”

Classical Usage

While εὐαρεστέω is not extensively documented in classical Greek literature, it appears occasionally in works discussing virtues or moral philosophy. Here are some examples:

Summary of εὐαρεστέω (G2100)

The Greek word εὐαρεστέω (euaresteō) translates to “to be pleasing” or “to please well,” particularly in the context of divine favor. Derived from the roots εὐ- (good, well) and ἀρεσκω (to please), it carries a strong moral and ethical connotation, emphasizing behavior that aligns with God’s will. This verb appears in several New Testament passages, encouraging believers to live in ways that are pleasing to God. While it is not as commonly found in classical Greek literature, its presence in religious texts, including the Septuagint, highlights its significance in discussions of divine favor and moral conduct.

Did You Know?

Did you know that εὐαρεστέω is a key word that underscores the importance of living a life that pleases God? In ancient Greek culture, pleasing the gods was a crucial element of religious practice, and in early Christianity, this concept evolved into a call for a life marked by faith, good deeds, and devotion.