G791
1. Brief Overview:
Transliteration: asteios
Root Words: The term ἀστεῖος (asteios) is derived from ἀστός (astós), meaning “city,” with an implication of refinement or urbanity.
Primary Meanings:
- Refined: Characterized by elegance and sophistication, often associated with city life.
- Polite: Displaying manners or courtesy, especially in social interactions.
- Nice or charming: Pleasant or attractive in manner or appearance.
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2. Detailed Description:
BDAG: BDAG defines ἀστεῖος as “of or pertaining to the city,” reflecting the refined and elegant qualities associated with urban life. It is used to describe someone or something that exhibits a sense of sophistication and courtesy.
Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon expands on this by noting that ἀστεῖος means “polite,” “urbane,” or “elegant,” highlighting the term’s connection to refined manners and urban sophistication.
Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary describes ἀστεῖος as “refined” or “elegant,” noting its use in contexts where an individual’s politeness or charm is emphasized.
LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon defines ἀστεῖος as “urban,” “elegant,” or “refined,” further specifying its use to describe someone possessing urbane manners or charm.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s lists ἀστεῖος as “nice,” “polite,” or “charming,” indicating its general use to describe pleasant or sophisticated qualities.
Bible Verses:
- Luke 7:25 (KJV): “But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously appareled, and live delicately, are in kings’ courts.”
- The term ἀστεῖος is used to describe someone who exhibits refined or elegant qualities, in contrast to the rugged or ascetic lifestyle of others.
3. Classic Greek Literature:
Usage in Classic Greek Literature:
- Aristotle uses terms related to ἀστεῖος to discuss the concept of urban sophistication and refined manners, often in the context of philosophical and social discussions.
- Plato employs related ideas when describing the characteristics of the ideal city or the refined nature of its inhabitants.
- Xenophon uses the term in his works to describe the refined qualities of certain characters or the elegance of their manners, reflecting the urban influences on their behavior.
4. Summary:
ἀστεῖος (asteios) captures the essence of urban refinement and politeness. It denotes qualities of sophistication, elegance, and charm, often associated with city life and cultured manners. The term reflects a sense of refined social behavior and pleasant demeanor, distinguished from more rugged or rural attributes.
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