Original Word: ἄμαχος
Part of Speech: Adjective
Transliteration: amachos
Pronunciation: ah'-makh-os
Phonetic Spelling: (am'-akh-os)
Definition: peaceable, abstaining from fighting, not contentious.
Meaning: The term ἄμαχος means "not contentious," "peaceable," or "not given to fighting."

Word Origin: Derived from the Greek prefix "α-" (a-), meaning "not" or "without," and "μάχη" (machē), meaning "fight" or "battle."

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for ἄμαχος, the concept of being peaceable or non-contentious can be related to several Hebrew terms that convey similar ideas. Some of these include:

- שָׁלוֹם (shalom) • Strong's Hebrew 7965: Often translated as "peace," this term encompasses completeness, welfare, and harmony.
- רָגַע (raga) • Strong's Hebrew 7280: Meaning "to be at rest" or "to be quiet," it conveys a sense of calmness and tranquility.

These Hebrew terms, like ἄμαχος, emphasize the importance of peace and the avoidance of strife, which are central themes throughout the biblical narrative.

Usage: The word ἄμαχος is used in the New Testament to describe a quality of character, particularly in the context of Christian leadership and behavior. It emphasizes the importance of being peaceable and avoiding quarrels.

Context: The Greek term ἄμαχος appears in the New Testament in the context of qualifications for church leaders. Specifically, it is found in 1 Timothy 3:3, where the Apostle Paul outlines the characteristics required of an overseer or bishop. The verse reads: "not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, peaceable, and free of the love of money" (BSB). Here, ἄμαχος is translated as "peaceable," highlighting the expectation that a leader in the church should not be prone to conflict or aggression but should instead foster harmony and understanding.

The concept of being ἄμαχος aligns with the broader biblical teaching on peace and unity within the body of Christ. It reflects the call for believers to live in a manner that promotes reconciliation and avoids unnecessary disputes. This quality is essential for maintaining the integrity and witness of the church, as leaders are called to exemplify Christ-like behavior.

In the cultural context of the early church, where divisions and disputes could easily arise, the emphasis on being ἄμαχος served as a reminder of the transformative power of the gospel to bring about peace and unity among diverse groups of people. This characteristic is not only relevant for leaders but is also a desirable trait for all Christians, as it reflects the peaceable nature of Christ Himself.

Word Origin
from alpha (as a neg. prefix) and maché
Definition
abstaining from fighting
NASB Translation
peaceable (2).

STRONGS NT 269: ἄμαχος

ἄμαχος, (μάχη), in Greek writings (from Pindar down) commonly not to be withstood, invincible; more rarely abstaining from fighting (Xenophon, Cyril 4, 1, 16; Hell. 4, 4, 9); in the N. T. twice metaphorically, not contentious: 1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 3:2.

Strong's Exhaustive Concordance

uncontentious, peaceable

From a (as a negative particle) and mache; peaceable -- not a brawler.

see GREEK a

see GREEK mache

Forms and Transliterations

αμαχον άμαχον ἄμαχον αμαχους αμάχους ἀμάχους amachon ámachon amachous amáchous

Links

Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts