Understanding ἀστεῖος (asteios) Strong’s G791: The Divine Beauty that Marked Moses as Extraordinary in God’s Plan

Pronunciation Guide: ah-STY-os

Basic Definition

Strong’s G791: ἀστεῖος describes something or someone of remarkable beauty, refinement, or excellence, particularly in reference to divine favor and purpose. The word carries connotations of being divinely beautiful, well-bred, cultured, and elegant. In biblical usage, it specifically describes Moses’ exceptional appearance as a baby, marking him as specially chosen by God.

Etymology and Morphology

• Part of Speech: Adjective
• Root: From ἄστυ (asty) meaning “city” or “town”
• Language Origin: Classical Greek
• Primary Usage: Narrative and descriptive passages
• Literary Style: Found in both formal and narrative contexts

ἀστεῖος Morphology:

• ἀστεῖος (nominative masculine singular) – urbane, beautiful
• ἀστεῖον (accusative masculine singular) – urbane, beautiful
• ἀστεία (nominative feminine singular) – urbane, beautiful
• ἀστεῖοι (nominative masculine plural) – urbane, beautiful

Origin & History

The word ἀστεῖος originally meant “of the city” or “urban” in classical Greek, describing the refined manners and culture associated with city dwellers as opposed to rural inhabitants. In Xenophon’s “Memorabilia,” the term appears describing sophisticated urban behavior and aesthetic refinement.

In the Septuagint, the meaning evolved to emphasize divine beauty and favor, particularly in Exodus 2:2 where Moses is described as ἀστεῖος. This usage marks a significant semantic development from mere physical beauty to beauty that signifies divine purpose.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• Divinely beautiful or fair
• Refined, elegant, cultured
• Extraordinary in appearance and character
• Marked by divine favor

ἀστεῖος Translation Options:

• “Beautiful” – Emphasizes physical appearance but may miss divine connotations
• “Fair” – Traditional translation capturing both beauty and divine favor
• “Extraordinary” – Captures the supernatural quality implied
• “Divinely beautiful” – Best conveys both physical and spiritual aspects

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἀστεῖος appears most notably in Acts 7:20, where Stephen describes Moses as “beautiful before God.” This usage directly parallels the Septuagint’s description in Exodus, emphasizing not merely physical beauty but divine purpose and favor.

The term appears in both accounts of Moses’ birth, creating a powerful theological connection between the Old and New Testament narratives:

• “At this time Moses was born and was beautiful [ἀστεῖος] before God.” Acts 7:20
• “When she saw that he was a beautiful [ἀστεῖος] child, she hid him for three months.” Exodus 2:2

Cultural Insights

In ancient Near Eastern culture, extraordinary beauty was often seen as a mark of divine favor and destiny. The use of ἀστεῖος in describing Moses parallels other ancient Near Eastern texts where future leaders are marked by exceptional appearance from birth. This cultural understanding would have resonated deeply with both Jewish and Hellenistic readers of the biblical accounts.

The term’s evolution from describing urban sophistication to divine beauty reflects the Jewish understanding that true refinement and beauty come from God rather than human culture. This transformation of meaning demonstrates how biblical Greek often infused classical terms with deeper spiritual significance.

Theological Significance

The application of ἀστεῖος to Moses underscores God’s sovereign choice and preparation of His servants before birth. This connects to broader biblical themes of divine election and providence, showing how God marks His chosen instruments even from infancy.

Just as Moses’ physical beauty signaled his divine calling, this word reminds us that God often provides visible signs of His invisible purposes. The use of ἀστεῖος in both Exodus and Acts creates a theological bridge between the Old and New Covenants, highlighting the continuity of God’s redemptive plan through chosen individuals.

Personal Application

When we encounter ἀστεῖος in Scripture, we’re reminded that God’s mark of favor often precedes His call to service. Just as Moses’ parents recognized something extraordinary in their child, we too should be attentive to the ways God marks people and situations for His purposes.

This word challenges us to look beyond surface-level beauty to recognize divine purpose and calling in ourselves and others. It encourages us to trust that God’s choice and favor often manifest in unexpected ways.

Related Words

• καλός (kalos) – beautiful, good, noble – Similar focus on aesthetic and moral beauty but without the specific urban/divine connotations. See G2570
• ὡραῖος (horaios) – timely, beautiful in time – Emphasizes seasonal or timely beauty. See G5611
• εὐπρεπής (euprepes) – seemly, becoming – Focuses on appropriateness and decorum. See G2158

Did you Know?

• The evolution of ἀστεῖος from “urban” to “divinely beautiful” reflects the common ancient understanding that cities were centers of culture and refinement.
• Moses’ designation as ἀστεῖος is one of only two instances where this specific term appears in the New Testament, highlighting its special significance.
• Ancient Jewish tradition holds that Moses’ beauty was supernatural in nature, with some sources claiming his birth filled the room with light – a tradition that may have influenced the use of ἀστεῖος.

Remember This

ἀστεῖος reminds us that true beauty in God’s eyes is always connected to divine purpose and calling.