Introduction

Understanding Greek words in biblical studies is crucial for uncovering deeper meanings within the scriptures. The Greek word εὔφημος (euphēmos, Strong’s G2163) is particularly significant because it embodies the concept of speaking well or being of good repute. This term highlights the importance of positive speech and reputation in both New Testament writings and ancient Greek culture. Understanding εὔφημος helps us grasp how the early Christians were encouraged to use their words wisely and maintain a good standing in society.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: εὔφημος (euphēmos) [YOO-fee-mos]
• Etymology: Derived from εὖ (eu, meaning “well” or “good”) and φημί (phēmi, meaning “to speak”), suggesting “speaking well” or “being of good repute.”
• Part of Speech: Adjective. First and second declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Of good report, well-spoken of: Describes someone or something that is favorably spoken of or has a good reputation.
• Reputable, praiseworthy: Implies being worthy of praise or commendation, reflecting a positive reputation.

Similar Words: ἔνδοξος (endoxos) [EN-dok-sos] also means “honored” or “glorious,” but it carries a stronger sense of being celebrated or esteemed, often in the context of public honor. In contrast, εὔφημος (euphēmos) emphasizes good speech and reputation more generally.

Further Insights: The adjective εὔφημος is part of both the first and second declension in Greek, which typically features adjectives that change endings based on gender, number, and case. Below is the full declension table for εὔφημος:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines εὔφημος as “well-spoken of, reputable,” referring to someone who is praised or spoken well of, particularly in contexts where good conduct or speech is emphasized. BDAG highlights its use in describing qualities that align with virtuous living.
• Thayer’s: Describes εὔφημος as “of good report, praiseworthy,” focusing on its positive connotation of being favorably regarded. Thayer’s underscores its significance in moral teachings about speech and reputation.
• Vine’s: Notes that εὔφημος means “of good repute, honorable,” often used to describe those who are respected or esteemed in their communities. Vine’s connects the term to ethical instructions for maintaining a good name.
• LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon indicates that εὔφημος was used in classical literature to mean “fair-spoken” or “well-spoken,” reflecting the Greek cultural value of eloquence and maintaining a good reputation through words.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Provides a concise definition of εὔφημος as “well-spoken of,” emphasizing its application to someone who is praiseworthy or has a good reputation.

Related Scripture References

• Philippians 4:8 – “Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute [εὔφημα], if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.”

Classical Usage

Summary of εὔφημος (G2163: euphēmos)

The Greek word εὔφημος (euphēmos, Strong’s G2163) is an adjective that denotes being well-spoken of, reputable, or praiseworthy. It is used to describe individuals who are favorably regarded for their conduct, speech, or character. This word is valuable in biblical studies because it provides insight into the importance of maintaining a good reputation and speaking well in both personal and public life. Its usage in both biblical and classical literature reflects a shared cultural emphasis on the power of words and the value of being held in good repute by others.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the concept of εὔφημος was so important in ancient Greek culture that it was often linked to religious practices? The Greeks believed that speaking well and maintaining a good reputation were essential to gaining favor from the gods and ensuring harmony within the community.