Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies, as they provide deeper insight into the scriptures and their original cultural contexts. The Greek word εὐεργέτης (euergetēs), meaning “benefactor” or “one who does good,” is particularly significant. This word carries connotations of generosity and leadership in both the New Testament and ancient Greek culture, where benefactors were highly regarded for their contributions to society and acts of kindness.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: εὐεργέτης (euergetēs) [yoo-er-GE-tace]
• Etymology: Derived from εὖ (eu), meaning “well” or “good,” and ἔργον (ergon), meaning “work” or “deed.” The compound word εὐεργέτης literally means “one who does good deeds.”
• Part of Speech: Noun; masculine; first declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Benefactor: One who provides help or benefits, often through charitable or philanthropic actions.
• Doer of Good: Someone who engages in good deeds or actions that benefit others.
• Patron: In ancient contexts, a person who supports others, especially in a social or political sense.

Similar Words: ἀγαθοποιός (agathopoiós) [ag-ath-op-oy-OS], meaning “one who does good.” While εὐεργέτης focuses on beneficence or philanthropy, ἀγαθοποιός is a more general term that can refer to any person who does good deeds, whether in a public or private context.

Further Insights: εὐεργέτης is a masculine noun of the first declension. Below is a table showing its full declension:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: εὐεργέτης is defined as “benefactor” or “one who does good.” In the New Testament, it refers to a person who generously provides for others, reflecting a position of influence or authority that benefits those around them.

Thayer’s: εὐεργέτης means “a benefactor, one who confers benefits.” Thayer emphasizes its usage to describe those who provide significant help or support to others, often in a charitable or philanthropic context.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary: εὐεργέτης is explained as “a benefactor,” often referring to those who, by virtue of their deeds, become patrons or protectors of others. Vine’s notes its significance in describing early Christian values of charity and support.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): εὐεργέτης is listed as “one who does good,” “benefactor,” or “helper.” LSJ highlights its use in classical Greek literature as a term of honor for those who contributed to the welfare of the state or community.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: εὐεργέτης (G2110) is defined as “a benefactor,” a term indicating someone who performs good deeds, especially on a large or impactful scale. The word comes from εὖ (eu) and ἔργον (ergon), meaning “one who does good works.”

Related Scripture References

• Luke 22:25: “And he said to them, ‘The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who have authority over them are called Benefactors (εὐεργέται).'”

Classical Usage

Summary of εὐεργέτης (G2110)

εὐεργέτης (euergetēs) is a noun that means “benefactor” or “one who does good.” It is used in the New Testament and classical literature to describe individuals who provide significant help, support, or charitable actions to others. In the ancient world, benefactors were often honored for their contributions to society, reflecting the importance of generosity and public service. This concept aligns with early Christian values of charity, highlighting the role of good works as a reflection of faith and character.

Did You Know?

Did you know that in ancient Greek cities, εὐεργέται (benefactors) were often rewarded with titles, public honors, and even statues for their contributions to civic life? They were considered pivotal to the well-being and prosperity of their communities, and their legacy was remembered for generations. The concept of the benefactor was so central to Greek culture that it influenced early Christian teachings on generosity and kindness as integral parts of a godly life.