Introduction

Understanding Greek words is essential in Biblical studies because it opens up a deeper understanding of the text and provides insights into the cultural and theological nuances of the early Christian era. The Greek word εὐλαβής (eulabḗs) is particularly significant as it denotes a quality of being pious, cautious, or devout. This term captures the essence of a reverent attitude, not just in worship but in everyday life. Exploring εὐλαβής helps us appreciate the value placed on carefulness and reverence in both the New Testament and ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: εὐλαβής (eulabḗs) [yoo-lah-BAYS]
• Etymology: Derived from εὖ (eu), meaning “well” or “good,” and λαμβάνω (lambanō), meaning “to take” or “to receive.” Combined, it implies “one who takes well” or “one who acts with caution.”
• Part of Speech: Adjective; third declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Pious
• Devout
• Reverent
• Cautious

Similar Words: The word εὐλαβής is related to σεβαστός (sebastós), meaning “venerable” or “worthy of reverence.” While both terms convey reverence, σεβαστός often describes a person or object that is revered, whereas εὐλαβής refers to the characteristic of being reverent or devout. Another related word is φοβερός (phoberós), meaning “fearful” or “inspiring fear,” but this word focuses more on fear itself rather than the piety and cautiousness that εὐλαβής embodies.

Further Insights:
Morphologically, εὐλαβής is an adjective of the third declension. This adjective can be used in both the masculine and feminine forms, while the neuter form is εὐλαβές. The term reflects a characteristic of one who acts with reverence or caution, often in a religious or moral context.

Click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
BDAG defines εὐλαβής as “devout” or “reverent,” focusing on a person’s attitude and behavior that reflects deep respect and caution, especially concerning divine or sacred matters.

Thayer’s:
Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon describes εὐλαβής as “cautious” or “circumspect,” often used to denote a person who is pious or devout in their observance of religious practices.

Vines:
Vines Expository Dictionary highlights εὐλαβής as an adjective that conveys “reverent” or “godly fear.” It underscores the word’s usage in contexts that require respect and care, particularly in relation to the divine.

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) lexicon provides a classical perspective on εὐλαβής, defining it as “careful,” “prudent,” or “pious,” and notes its usage in describing someone who behaves with careful consideration of consequences, both divine and secular.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance lists εὐλαβής as meaning “pious” or “reverent.” It emphasizes the characteristic of being cautious or careful in one’s spiritual and moral life.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 2:5: “And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men (εὐλαβεῖς) out of every nation under heaven.”
• Luke 2:25: “And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout (εὐλαβής), waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.”

Classical Usage

Septuagint Usage

Summary of εὐλαβής (G2126: eulabḗs)

The Greek word εὐλαβής (eulabḗs) is an adjective meaning “pious,” “devout,” or “reverent.” It combines εὖ (“well”) and λαμβάνω (“to take”), emphasizing the characteristic of being careful, cautious, or reverent in one’s actions, especially in a religious context. Lexicons like BDAG, Thayer’s, Vines, LSJ, and Strong’s provide a nuanced understanding of εὐλαβής, illustrating its importance in expressing a mindset of piety and prudence. In both the New Testament and classical Greek literature, εὐλαβής reflects a cultural value of being devout and careful, particularly regarding one’s relationship with the divine.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the concept of being εὐλαβής, or reverent, was not only a religious ideal in ancient Greek culture but also a highly regarded trait for leaders, philosophers, and citizens? Ancient Greeks believed that a person who was εὐλαβής could maintain balance, justice, and harmony in both their personal and communal life!