In the Greek context, the concept of "bless" is primarily captured by the word "εὐλογέω" (eulogeō), which is used extensively in the New Testament. This term combines "εὖ" (eu), meaning "good" or "well," and "λόγος" (logos), meaning "word" or "speech." Thus, "eulogeō" literally means "to speak well of" or "to praise." In the biblical sense, it extends beyond mere words to convey a deep sense of favor, prosperity, and divine grace.

Biblical Usage and Meaning

1. Divine Favor and Grace: In the New Testament, "eulogeō" often refers to the act of God bestowing favor and grace upon individuals or groups. For instance, in Ephesians 1:3, Paul writes, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms." Here, the term underscores the spiritual blessings and divine favor believers receive through their union with Christ.

2. Human Praise and Thanksgiving: The term is also used to describe human actions of praise and thanksgiving towards God. In Luke 1:68, Zechariah exclaims, "Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, because He has visited and redeemed His people." This usage highlights the response of gratitude and worship from humans towards God's mighty acts.

3. Interpersonal Blessings: "Eulogeō" is employed in contexts where individuals bless one another, often invoking God's favor upon others. In 1 Peter 3:9, believers are instructed, "Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing." This reflects the Christian ethic of responding to hostility with kindness and invoking God's goodness upon others.

Cultural and Theological Implications

In the Greco-Roman world, blessings were often associated with prosperity, health, and success. However, the New Testament redefines and deepens this understanding by emphasizing spiritual blessings and the transformative power of God's grace. The act of blessing, whether divine or human, is seen as a conduit of God's love and favor, transcending material wealth and focusing on spiritual enrichment and eternal life.

The Role of Jesus Christ

Central to the New Testament understanding of blessing is the role of Jesus Christ. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Christ becomes the ultimate source of blessing for humanity. Galatians 3:14 states, "He redeemed us in order that the blessing promised to Abraham would come to the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit." This passage highlights the fulfillment of God's promises through Christ, extending the blessings of Abraham to all nations and emphasizing the spiritual inheritance available to believers.

Practical Application

For Christians, the concept of blessing involves both receiving and giving. Believers are called to recognize and be grateful for the blessings they receive from God, while also being instruments of blessing to others. This involves speaking words of encouragement, offering prayers for others, and living a life that reflects God's goodness and grace. The act of blessing is thus both a privilege and a responsibility, rooted in the transformative power of the Gospel and the call to live out one's faith in tangible ways.