Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for grasping the richness and depth of the original texts. The Greek word ἤπιος (ēpios) is particularly significant because it conveys the qualities of gentleness, mildness, and kindness. These characteristics are often highlighted in the New Testament to describe the behavior expected of believers, especially leaders and those in positions of care. In understanding ἤπιος, we gain insight into the early Christian ethos and its emphasis on nurturing and compassionate relationships.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἤπιος (ēpios), pronounced [AY-pee-os].
• Etymology: The word ἤπιος comes from a root word that conveys a sense of gentleness, kindness, or mildness.
• Part of Speech: Adjective. As an adjective, it is used to describe nouns, indicating qualities of mildness or gentleness.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Gentle: Soft or kind in behavior; not harsh or severe.
• Mild: Not strong or intense; moderate.
• Kind: Showing a friendly, generous, and considerate nature.

Similar Words: Πραΰς (praus), pronounced [PRA-oos], is a related Greek word meaning “meek” or “gentle.” While both ἤπιος (ēpios) and πραΰς (praus) convey gentleness, ἤπιος tends to emphasize a nurturing kindness, whereas πραΰς often emphasizes humility or a submissive attitude.

Further Insights: ἤπιος (ēpios) is an adjective that follows the typical declension patterns in Greek. It is usually found in the nominative, genitive, dative, or accusative cases and can be masculine, feminine, or neuter depending on the noun it modifies. Here is the full declension table for ἤπιος (ēpios):

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: ἤπιος (ēpios) is defined as “gentle, kind, mild” and is used in contexts to describe a person who is not harsh or severe, particularly in pastoral or nurturing roles.

Thayers: Thayer’s Lexicon notes that ἤπιος (ēpios) refers to a quality of being “gentle” or “mild,” highlighting its usage in scriptures where gentleness is a key virtue for Christian leaders.

Vines: Vine’s Expository Dictionary emphasizes the word’s connotation of a “gentle disposition,” often used to contrast with harshness or aggressiveness, especially in leadership and teaching contexts.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon provides examples of ἤπιος (ēpios) in classical Greek literature, where it is used to describe characters who exhibit gentleness or mildness, often in contrast to more aggressive or stern figures.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance lists ἤπιος (ēpios) as G2261, identifying it as an adjective meaning “gentle” or “mild,” particularly as it applies to demeanor or behavior.

Related Scripture References

• 1 Thessalonians 2:7: “But we were gentle (ἤπιοι) among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children.”
• 2 Timothy 2:24: “And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle (ἤπιον) unto all men, apt to teach, patient.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἤπιος (G2261: ēpios)

The Greek word ἤπιος (ēpios) is an adjective meaning “gentle,” “mild,” or “kind.” It is used in the New Testament to describe the expected behavior of Christians, especially leaders and those in caring roles. The word emphasizes a nurturing and caring approach, contrasting with harshness or aggression. It is also found in classical Greek literature and the Septuagint, where it similarly conveys a sense of gentleness and moderation. Understanding ἤπιος (ēpios) provides valuable insight into early Christian virtues and the emphasis on a caring community.

Did You Know?

• The word ἤπιος (ēpios) is used to describe both a nursing mother and a servant of the Lord, highlighting its importance in expressing tenderness and care.
• In ancient Greek literature, ἤπιος (ēpios) was often used to describe ideal rulers or leaders who governed with kindness rather than force.
• The use of ἤπιος (ēpios) in the Septuagint provides a link between Jewish and early Christian values of gentleness and care, particularly in leadership and community life.

The understanding of ἤπιος (ēpios) helps to deepen our comprehension of Christian conduct and the ideal attributes of leaders and followers within the early Church and beyond.