ἁπλῶς

simply, sincerely

Definition

The adverb ἁπλῶς means 'simply' or 'sincerely,' describing an action done with singleness of heart, without hidden motives or duplicity. In its only New Testament occurrence, James 1:5, it modifies how God gives wisdom to those who ask, emphasizing that He gives 'generously' or 'bountifully' without reservation or reluctance. This sense of open-handed, ungrudging generosity flows from the core idea of simplicity and undivided intent. Thus, the word encompasses both the manner (sincerely) and the measure (liberally) of a gift or action.

Biblical Usage

ἁπλῶς is used only once in the New Testament, in James 1:5. It describes the character of God's giving: 'But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously (ἁπλῶς) and without reproach, and it will be given to him.' Here, it is used in a theological and ethical context to underscore God's nature as a gracious and open-handed provider, contrasting with human potential for double-mindedness (James 1:8).

Etymology

Derived from the adjective ἁπλοῦς (haplous, G573), meaning 'simple,' 'single,' or 'sincere.' The root combines ἀ- (a negative or intensive prefix) and a base related to 'fold' or 'twist' (cf. πλέκω, plekō, 'to braid'). Thus, its fundamental meaning is 'not folded' or 'not double,' conveying singleness, unity, and absence of duplicity. This developed into the adverbial senses of acting with simplicity, sincerity, and consequently, liberality.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it directly describes an attribute of God's giving. It assures believers that God's generosity is wholehearted, sincere, and abundant, free from any mixed motives or stinginess. Understanding ἁπλῶς enriches the reading of James 1:5 by highlighting that divine wisdom is not given grudgingly but with a simple, gracious openness that believers are called to emulate in their own faith and actions (cf. Romans 12:8).

In Greco-Roman and Jewish ethical thought, simplicity (ἁπλότης) was a valued virtue, opposed to duplicity and deceit. A gift given 'ἁπλῶς' was given freely, without strings attached or expectation of return, reflecting ideal generosity. This cultural backdrop makes James's application to God's character particularly powerful, presenting Him as the perfect embodiment of this virtuous, open-handed giving.

ἁπλότης (haplotēs, G572) — the noun form meaning 'simplicity,' 'sincerity,' or 'generosity,' denoting the quality itself. | μετὰ εὐλογίας (meta eulogias) — a phrase meaning 'with blessing,' sometimes connoting generous giving, but less focused on the singleness of motive.

Word Details

Scripture References