Strong's Lexicon Epikoureios: Epicurean Original Word: Ἐπικουρεῖος Word Origin: Derived from the name of the Greek philosopher Epicurus, who founded the school of philosophy known as Epicureanism. Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: There are no direct Hebrew equivalents for "Epikoureios" as it is a term specific to Greek philosophy and culture. Usage: The term "Epikoureios" refers to a follower of Epicurean philosophy. In the context of the New Testament, it is used to describe individuals who adhered to the teachings of Epicurus, which emphasized the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain as the primary goals of life. This philosophy often stood in contrast to the teachings of Christianity, which emphasize self-denial and spiritual fulfillment. Cultural and Historical Background: Epicureanism was a prominent school of thought in the Hellenistic period and continued to be influential during the time of the New Testament. Epicurus taught that the greatest good was to seek modest pleasures to attain a state of tranquility and freedom from fear, as well as the absence of bodily pain. This philosophy was materialistic and often rejected the idea of divine intervention in the world, which conflicted with the theistic worldview of early Christians. Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1946: ἘπικούρειοςἘπικούρειος (Ἐπικουριος T WH; see Iota), Ἐπικουρειου, ὁ, Epicurean, belonging to the sect of Epicurus, the philosopher: Acts 17:18. Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Epicurean. From Epikouros (compare epikouria) (a noted philosopher); an Epicurean or follower of Epicurus -- Epicurean. see GREEK epikouria Forms and Transliterations Ἐπικουρείων Επικουριων Ἐπικουρίων Epikoureion Epikoureiōn Epikoureíon EpikoureíōnLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |