Introduction

Understanding Greek words in biblical studies is essential for uncovering the layered meanings within scripture. The Greek word εὔσημος (eusēmos, Strong’s G2154) is particularly significant as it conveys concepts of being notable or marked. Its usage in the New Testament can shed light on the cultural and theological context of the time, while its occurrence in ancient Greek literature helps us understand how the word functioned in broader Greek culture.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: εὔσημος (eusēmos) [yoo-SAY-mos]
• Etymology: Derived from εὖ (eu, meaning “well” or “good”) and σῆμα (sēma, meaning “sign” or “mark”).
• Part of Speech: Adjective. First and second declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Marked, significant: Refers to something that is easily distinguishable or notable.
• Distinguished, prominent: Implies that someone or something is known or stands out for a particular reason, often in a positive sense.

Similar Words: σημαντικός (sēmantikos) [say-man-TEE-kos] also means “significant” or “important,” but it often refers to something meaningful or expressive in a communicative sense. In contrast, εὔσημος (eusēmos) carries a more physical connotation of being marked or visibly notable.

Further Insights: The adjective εὔσημος is part of the first and second declension in Greek, agreeing with nouns in gender, number, and case. It highlights the idea of something or someone being marked or distinguished. Below is the full declension table for εὔσημος:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: εὔσημος is defined as “marked, notable, or significant,” and it is used in contexts where something is distinguishable or prominent. BDAG emphasizes the word’s descriptive nature in both secular and sacred texts.
• Thayer’s: This lexicon describes εὔσημος as “notable, conspicuous,” referring to something or someone that is well-marked or distinguished. Thayer’s also notes the word’s potential use to describe people who stand out for their deeds or qualities.
• Vine’s: εὔσημος is noted to mean “significant, marked,” often describing something that has a distinguishing characteristic or is set apart in some way. Vine’s also links the term to its root meanings, highlighting the combination of “good” and “mark.”
• LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon shows that εὔσημος was used in classical literature to denote something “marked” or “distinguished,” especially with a positive connotation, such as being renowned or famous.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines εὔσημος as “well-marked” or “distinguished,” providing a straightforward interpretation that focuses on the visible or notable aspect of the word’s meaning.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 2:20 – “The sun will be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and notable [εὔσημον] day of the Lord comes.”

Classical Usage

Summary of εὔσημος (G2154: eusēmos)

The Greek word εὔσημος (eusēmos, Strong’s G2154) is an adjective that conveys the idea of being marked, notable, or distinguished. It describes something or someone that stands out due to its significance or the impression it makes. This word is valuable in biblical studies because it helps us understand how early Christians described events, people, or signs that were meant to be set apart or recognized. Its usage in both biblical and classical literature reflects the value placed on distinctiveness and prominence in various contexts, whether spiritual, social, or cultural.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the concept of being “εὔσημος” was also significant in Greek astrology and omens? In ancient times, celestial events like eclipses or comets were often described as “εὔσημος” because they were considered marked signs from the gods, filled with special meaning and guidance for interpreting future events.