G3786

Unveiling the Word

The Greek word ὄφελος (ophelos) carries the primary meaning of “benefit,” “advantage,” or “gain.” In biblical contexts, it often refers to a spiritual or moral advantage gained through certain actions or choices. The significance of this word extends to discussions of value in both temporal and eternal perspectives. When used in passages like 1 Corinthians 15:32, it highlights the futility or profit in actions taken without consideration of their ultimate purpose or outcome, thus urging believers to evaluate their life choices critically.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: ὄφελος (ophelos), pronounced [O-fe-los].

Etymology: The word derives from the root verb ὀφείλω (opheílō), which means “to owe” or “to be under obligation.” This connection underlines the concept of value and debt, suggesting that what one owes can also be seen as what one gains.

Part of Speech: Noun; specifically, it is used in the context of gain or advantage, typically in discussions of ethics and morality.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

Benefit: The primary meaning of ὄφελος refers to the advantage or profit derived from a particular action or decision, especially in a moral or ethical context.

Gain: It can also indicate the idea of obtaining something of value, whether tangible or intangible, often relating to spiritual growth or ethical living.

Futility: In certain contexts, it reflects on the lack of gain from specific actions, especially when those actions do not align with one’s values or purposes.

Exploring Similar Words

ὄφελος (ophelos) [O-fe-los]: The primary word itself, indicating gain or benefit.

κέρδος (kerdos) [KER-dos]: This word also means “gain” or “profit,” but is often used in a more commercial or financial context, contrasting with the moral implications of ὄφελος.

ἀπολογία (apologia) [ap-ol-OG-ee-ah]: Meaning “defense” or “justification,” this term emphasizes the importance of one’s actions and their moral implications, tying back to the necessity of evaluating benefits.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Nouns:

• Case, Number, Gender: ὄφελος is a masculine noun found primarily in the nominative case, indicating it is the subject of the sentence.

• Declension: It typically follows the rules of the second declension, with its plural form being ὄφελοι.

Studying Lexicon Insights

Insights from various Greek lexicons reveal that ὄφελος encompasses more than mere material gain. It is often employed in discussions around the ethical dimensions of actions and decisions, emphasizing that true benefit comes not just from worldly gain but also from spiritual and moral integrity. In New Testament contexts, the word serves as a reminder for believers to consider the ultimate implications of their actions. The word’s use can also highlight the contrast between temporary benefits and eternal values, making it relevant to Christian teachings on stewardship and morality.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1 Corinthians 15:32: “If the dead are not raised, ‘Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die.’ [ὄφελος]”

Matthew 5:29: “If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. [ὄφελος]”

Matthew 6:20: “But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. [ὄφελος]”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, the word ὄφελος is used to discuss various forms of gain, from ethical implications to tangible profits.

Example 1: Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics: “True happiness is not found in material wealth, but in the moral benefits [ὄφελος] of virtuous living.”

Example 2: Plato, The Republic: “The just man sees greater gain [ὄφελος] in virtue than the unjust man in wealth.”

Example 3: Hesiod, Works and Days: “Labor yields a harvest of benefits [ὄφελος] that the idle man will never know.”

Septuagint Example 1: Ecclesiastes 2:26: “For to the one who pleases him God has given wisdom and knowledge and joy, but to the sinner he has given the business of gathering and collecting, only to give to one who pleases God. [ὄφελος]”

Septuagint Example 2: Proverbs 14:23: “In all toil there is profit [ὄφελος], but mere talk tends only to poverty.”

Septuagint Example 3: Sirach 10:27: “The safety of the rich man is in his possessions; the safety of the poor man is in the fear of God. [ὄφελος]”

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek noun ὄφελος emphasizes the ethical dimensions of gain, stressing that true benefits arise from virtuous actions and moral integrity. It encourages believers to weigh the ultimate consequences of their choices.

Did You Know?

1. The term ὄφελος is used in the context of ethical discussions, urging individuals to reflect on the moral implications of their decisions.

2. In the ancient Greek philosophical tradition, discussions of benefit often centered on the relationship between material wealth and virtue.

3. ὄφελος serves as a reminder in biblical texts that true profit lies in aligning one’s actions with spiritual values.

Strong’s G3786: ὄφελος (ophelos) denotes gain or benefit, particularly in moral contexts, emphasizing the importance of ethical living and the ultimate consequences of one’s actions.