Lexical Summary hadrotés: Abundance, Richness Original Word: ἁδρότης Strong's Exhaustive Concordance abundance. From hadros (stout); plumpness, i.e. (figuratively) liberality -- abundance. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom hadros (thick, well-grown) Definition thickness, abundance NASB Translation generous gift (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 100: ἁδρότηςἁδρότης (Rec.st ἀδρ.), (ητος, ἡ, or better (cf. Alexander Buttmann (1873) Ausf. Spr. ii. 417) ἁδροτής, (ῆτος (on the accent cf. Ebeling, Lex. Homer under the word; Chandler §§ 634, 635), (from ἁδρός thick, stout, full-grown, strong, rich (2 Kings 10:6, 11, etc.)), in Greek writings it follows the significance of the adjective ἁδρός; once in the N. T.: 2 Corinthians 8:20, bountiful collection, great liberality, (R. V. bounty). (ἁδροσύνη, of an abundant harvest, Hesiod ἐργ. 471.) Topical Lexicon Meaning and Nuance The term ἁδρότης (hadrotēs) conveys the idea of substantial abundance, profuse generosity, or lavish size. In its single New Testament occurrence it describes a financial contribution of such magnitude that Paul takes deliberate steps to ensure transparent stewardship. Biblical Context 2 Corinthians 8–9 records Paul’s appeal to the churches of Macedonia and Achaia to complete their promised relief offering for the believers in Jerusalem. In 2 Corinthians 8:20 Paul explains why a trusted delegation will accompany the monetary gift: “We hope to avoid any criticism for the way we administer this generous gift”. The expression “generous gift” translates ἁδρότης, highlighting the sizeable nature of the collection and the apostolic concern for an unimpeachable handling of resources. Historical Background Around A.D. 55–57 a severe famine and ongoing persecution had left the Jerusalem assembly in great need. Paul, eager to demonstrate Gentile solidarity with Jewish believers, organized a multi-church offering. Ancient transportation and banking were risky; embezzlement accusations could undermine both the gospel and apostolic authority. By appointing Titus and two reputable brothers to travel with the funds (2 Corinthians 8:16-24), Paul modeled fiscal accountability long before modern financial safeguards. Theological Significance 1. Evidence of Grace: Paul repeatedly frames the offering as “this act of grace” (2 Corinthians 8:6,7). Lavish generosity is portrayed as a tangible manifestation of God’s grace working in redeemed hearts. Ministry Application • Stewardship: Churches handling significant donations should emulate Paul’s practice of shared oversight, written commendations, and public reporting. Related Scriptural Themes Proverbs 11:25; Isaiah 58:10; Luke 6:38; Acts 11:29-30; Romans 15:25-28; Galatians 2:10; Philippians 4:14-18; 1 Timothy 6:17-19; Hebrews 13:16; 1 Peter 4:10. Conclusion Though ἁδρότης appears only once, its context illuminates vital principles: God-wrought liberality, conscientious stewardship, and the unifying power of generous ministry. The “lavish gift” of 2 Corinthians 8:20 therefore stands as a lasting pattern for Christian giving and leadership integrity. Forms and Transliterations αδροτητι αδρότητι ἁδρότητι αδρυνθέντος αδυναμία ηδρύνθη ηδρύνθησαν adroteti adrotēti hadroteti hadrotēti hadróteti hadrótētiLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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