Strong's Lexicon epieikés: Gentle, reasonable, moderate, forbearing Original Word: ἐπιεικής Word Origin: Derived from the Greek root "epi" (upon, fitting) and "eikos" (reasonable, likely), suggesting a sense of appropriateness or moderation. Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent, the concept of gentleness and forbearance can be related to Hebrew terms such as "anav" (עָנָו) meaning humble or meek, and "chesed" (חֶסֶד) meaning loving-kindness or mercy. Usage: The term "epieikés" conveys a sense of gentleness and moderation, often in the context of behavior that is considerate and fair. It implies a disposition that is not overly strict or harsh, but rather one that is patient and understanding. In the New Testament, it is used to describe a quality of character that reflects Christ-like humility and kindness. Cultural and Historical Background: In the Greco-Roman world, virtues such as gentleness and moderation were highly valued, especially in leadership and social interactions. The concept of "epieikés" would have resonated with early Christians as a counter-cultural virtue, contrasting with the often harsh and authoritarian norms of the time. It reflects a call to live in a manner that is both just and compassionate, embodying the teachings of Jesus. HELPS Word-studies 1933 epieikḗs(an adjective, derived from 1909 /epí, "on, fitting" and eikos, "equitable, fair"; also see the noun-form, 1932 /epieíkeia, "equity-justice") – properly, equitable; "gentle" in the sense of truly fair by relaxing overly strict standards in order to keep the "spirit of the law." 1933 /epieikḗs ("justice beyond ordinary justice") builds on the real intent (purpose) of what is really at stake (note the epi, "upon") – and hence, is true equity that appropriately fulfills the spirit (not just the letter) of the law. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom epi and eoika (see also eikó) Definition seemly, equitable, yielding NASB Translation gentle (5). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1933: ἐπιεικήςἐπιεικής, ἐπιεικές (εἰκός, what is reasonable); 1. seemly, suitable (from Homer down). 2. equitable, fair, mild, gentle: 1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 3:2; 1 Peter 2:18; James 3:17. Neuter τό ἐπιεικές (as often in Greek writings from Thucydides down) ὑμῶν equivalent to ἡ ἐπιείκεια ὑμῶν, Philippians 4:5. (See ἐπιείκεια, at the end.) From epi and eiko; appropriate, i.e. (by implication) mild -- gentle, moderation, patient. see GREEK epi see GREEK eiko Englishman's Concordance Philippians 4:5 Adj-NNSGRK: τὸ ἐπιεικὲς ὑμῶν γνωσθήτω NAS: Let your gentle [spirit] be known KJV: Let your moderation be known unto all INT: the gentleness of you let be known 1 Timothy 3:3 Adj-AMS Titus 3:2 Adj-AMP James 3:17 Adj-NFS 1 Peter 2:18 Adj-DMP Strong's Greek 1933 |
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