Lexical Summary philanthrópós: Loving mankind, benevolent, kind Original Word: φιλάνθρωπος Strong's Exhaustive Concordance courteously. Adverb from a compound of philos and anthropos; fondly to man ("philanthropically"), i.e. Humanely -- courteously. see GREEK philos see GREEK anthropos HELPS Word-studies Cognate: 5364 philanthrṓpōs (an adverb) – properly, friendly; describing the kindness shown by (literally) "a friend (5384 /phílos) of humanity (444 /ánthrōpos)." That is, treating others with courteous respect because each is created in the divine image. 5364 /philanthrṓpōs is used only in Ac 27:3. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originadverb from philanthrópos (humane, kind); from the same as philanthrópia Definition humanely, kindly NASB Translation consideration (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 5364: φιλανθρώπωςφιλανθρώπως, adverb, humanely, kindly: Acts 27:3. (Isocrates, Demosthenes, Polybius, Diodorus, Plutarch, others; 2 Macc. 9:27.) Topical Lexicon Definition and Scope The term represented by Strong’s Greek 5364 describes an attitude of active good-will toward fellow humans—an eagerness to treat others humanely and generously. Although the word appears only once in the Greek New Testament, its single occurrence anchors a rich biblical theme: compassionate kindness that mirrors God’s own benevolence. Background in the Old Testament The Hebrew Scriptures consistently commend practical mercy toward strangers, the vulnerable, and even enemies (Leviticus 19:34; Proverbs 25:21). The term ḥesed, often rendered “lovingkindness,” embodies covenant faithfulness expressed through tangible care. This backdrop prepares the reader to recognize philanthropic kindness as an expression of covenantal love rather than mere social courtesy. Greco-Roman Cultural Context In the wider Mediterranean world, “philanthropy” was a celebrated civic virtue. Benefactors gained honor by financing public works or emergency relief. Scripture affirms genuine kindness yet redirects glory from human patrons to the ultimate Benefactor, the Lord (Acts 14:17; James 1:17). Thus, when Luke records an imperial officer’s humane action, he highlights providence rather than imperial propaganda. New Testament Usage Acts 27:3 is the single New Testament verse employing the adverbial form: “The next day we put in at Sidon, and Julius treated Paul kindly and allowed him to go to his friends to receive their care.” (Berean Standard Bible) Key observations: Related New Testament Passages Though the adverb itself is unique, the noun from the same root appears in Acts 28:2 (“unusual kindness”) and Titus 3:4 (“the kindness and love of God our Savior”). These occurrences form a literary bridge: human kindness on the journey to Rome (Acts 27–28) frames a doctrinal statement that salvation itself springs from God’s philanthropic heart (Titus 3:4–5). Theological Significance 1. Reflection of God’s Character. God’s benevolence is not abstract; it manifests in concrete rescue (Psalm 107) and reaches its climax in Christ’s atoning work (Romans 5:8). Human kindness is therefore derivative, flowing from divine initiative (1 John 4:19). Practical Ministry Applications • Prison and Migrant Ministry: Julius’s act encourages Christians to advocate humane treatment for those in custody or transit, providing tangible aid and spiritual support (Hebrews 13:3). Historical Testimony Early church apologists highlighted Christian philanthropy—care for widows, orphans, the sick, and abandoned infants—as evidence of the faith’s truth and power. Acts 27:3 provided a scriptural precedent for gratefully receiving kindness from outsiders while persevering in distinctively Christian good works. Related Concepts • Mercy (eleos) Summary Strong’s Greek 5364, though rare, illumines the gospel narrative with a vivid snapshot of compassionate behavior. Julius’s humane treatment of Paul reflects God’s sovereign kindness, advances the mission of Christ, and models the ethical calling of all believers. In Scripture and in life, such philanthropy is never random; it is the outworking of a benevolent Creator who “is kind to the ungrateful and wicked” (Luke 6:35) and who summons His people to do likewise. Forms and Transliterations φιλανθρωπως φιλανθρώπως philanthropos philanthrōpōs philanthrṓpos philanthrṓpōsLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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