Lexical Summary epieikés: Gentle, reasonable, moderate, forbearing Original Word: ἐπιεικής Strong's Exhaustive Concordance gentle, moderation, patient. From epi and eiko; appropriate, i.e. (by implication) mild -- gentle, moderation, patient. see GREEK epi see GREEK eiko 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.) Strong’s Greek 1933 gathers into a single word the traits of gentleness, fairness, and yielding consideration. Scripture presents it as a virtue required for leaders, expected of every believer, and ultimately exemplified in Christ. Biblical Occurrences • 1 Timothy 3:3 – A qualification for overseers: “not violent but gentle”. Theological Significance Gentleness is more than softness; it is strength restrained for the good of others. It assumes God’s sovereign justice and therefore refuses to force personal rights. In James, it is an attribute of wisdom “from above,” rooting the quality in God’s own character. Because gentleness grows from trust in divine oversight, it harmonizes naturally with peace, patience, and humility. Historical and Cultural Context In first-century Greco-Roman society, power was commonly asserted through patronage, coercion, or status. The New Testament’s call to epieikés upended such norms by urging leaders, masters, and everyday believers to lay aside harshness. Early Christian writers—Ignatius, Polycarp, and the author of the Didache—echoed this virtue, showing that the apostolic churches quickly understood gentleness as integral to Christian identity. Relationship to Other Virtues • Linked with temperance and peace (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 3:2). Christ as Model Though the specific term does not appear in the Gospels, Jesus embodies its substance: “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart” (Matthew 11:29). His entrance on a donkey (Matthew 21:5, citing Zechariah 9:9) pictures royal authority expressed through meekness—power under perfect control. Ministry Implications Shepherds and elders must resist domineering impulses. Correction, whether from the pulpit or in private counsel, gains potency when delivered with epieikés. Among congregants, gentleness diffuses conflict, models Christ to outsiders, and fosters unity. In evangelism, a gentle demeanor strengthens apologetic witness (compare 1 Peter 3:15-16). Practical Application 1. Examine motives when exercising authority; exchange forcefulness for fair-minded patience. Summary Strong’s Greek 1933 calls believers to display the courteous strength of a life surrendered to Christ. It is neither weakness nor compromise but the steady posture of those who trust God to vindicate righteousness while they extend grace to others. 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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