Brief Overview of εἰρηνοποιέω (Strong’s G1517: eirēnopoieō)

Introduction:

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies because it allows readers to grasp the full depth and nuance of the original text. The word εἰρηνοποιέω (eirēnopoieō) is particularly significant as it is tied to the concept of peacemaking, an essential element in both Christian ethics and ancient Greek philosophy. This term, found in the New Testament, directly relates to the idea of actively creating or fostering peace, which is a cornerstone of Christian teachings. Moreover, εἰρηνοποιέω provides insight into how peace was perceived and enacted in ancient Greek culture, highlighting its relevance not only in religious contexts but also in broader societal practices.

Key Information:

• Greek Word: εἰρηνοποιέω (eirēnopoieō) [ay-ray-no-poy-EH-oh]
• Etymology: Derived from the Greek noun εἰρήνη (eirēnē), meaning “peace,” and the verb ποιέω (poieō), meaning “to make” or “to do.” Thus, εἰρηνοποιέω literally means “to make peace.”
• Part of Speech: Verb (Active, Indicative, Present tense)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings:

• To make peace
• To reconcile parties at variance
• To bring about harmony or tranquility

Similar Words:

• καταλλάσσω (katallássō) [ka-tal-LAS-so]: Meaning “to reconcile,” this word also involves bringing together estranged parties but often focuses on the restoration of relationships, particularly in a theological sense.
• εἰρηνεύω (eirēneúō) [ay-ray-NYOO-oh]: Translated as “to live in peace,” this word emphasizes maintaining a peaceful state rather than actively creating it.
• διαλλάσσω (diallássō) [dee-al-LAS-so]: Another verb meaning “to reconcile,” often used in the context of mediating disputes or restoring friendly relations.

Further Insights:

• Morphology:
• εἰρηνοποιέω is a compound verb combining εἰρήνη (peace) and ποιέω (to make). The verb form is active, indicative, and present tense, which means it describes an ongoing action of making peace.
• Usage in Sentences: εἰρηνοποιέω typically appears in contexts that discuss the role of peacemakers or the act of reconciliation. It emphasizes the active effort required to create and maintain peace.

Lexicon Insights:

BDAG:
BDAG describes εἰρηνοποιέω as “to make peace” or “to reconcile,” particularly highlighting its use in the New Testament as an essential aspect of Christian conduct. The lexicon notes that this verb is closely associated with the beatitude “Blessed are the peacemakers” in Matthew 5:9.

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Thayer’s:
Thayer’s lexicon defines εἰρηνοποιέω as “to make peace” or “to establish harmony.” It emphasizes the active nature of the word, pointing out that it involves more than just avoiding conflict—it is about actively creating conditions for peace.

Vine’s:
Vine’s Expository Dictionary discusses εἰρηνοποιέω in relation to the Christian ideal of peacemaking, noting that it is a key concept in the teachings of Jesus, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount. Vine’s also highlights its use in epistles where believers are encouraged to be peacemakers.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones):
The LSJ lexicon traces εἰρηνοποιέω back to classical Greek literature, where it was used in political and social contexts to describe the act of bringing peace between warring states or individuals. The lexicon notes that this term was highly valued in both civic and private life in ancient Greece.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance lists εἰρηνοποιέω as “to make peace,” emphasizing its role in the New Testament as part of the Christian ethical imperative to seek peace and reconciliation. Strong’s also connects this word to the broader theme of peace found throughout the Bible.

Scripture References:

• Matthew 5:9: “Blessed are the peacemakers (εἰρηνοποιοί), for they shall be called sons of God.”
• Colossians 1:20: “and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace (εἰρηνοποιήσας) by the blood of his cross.”

Classical Usage:

Summary of εἰρηνοποιέω (G1517: eirēnopoieō)

The Greek verb εἰρηνοποιέω (eirēnopoieō), meaning “to make peace,” is an essential concept in both the New Testament and broader Greek literature. It encapsulates the active effort required to create and maintain peace, whether in personal relationships, communities, or between nations. In the New Testament, εἰρηνοποιέω is particularly important as it reflects the Christian calling to be peacemakers, a role that is highly valued and blessed by God. This term is not only a theological concept but also a reflection of the broader cultural and social emphasis on peace in ancient Greece.

Did You Know?

The concept of making peace, as expressed by εἰρηνοποιέω, was not only a moral and ethical ideal in the New Testament but also a political strategy in ancient Greece. Leaders who could effectively mediate and create peace were highly respected and often revered for their wisdom and diplomacy. This dual significance in both the spiritual and political realms highlights the importance of εἰρηνοποιέω in understanding the full scope of peacemaking in ancient contexts.