ἁπλοῦς

single, simple, sound

Definition

The adjective ἁπλοῦς primarily means 'single' or 'simple,' describing something that is undivided, uncomplicated, or sincere. In its two New Testament occurrences, it describes the eye as being 'single' or 'healthy' (Matthew 6:22, Luke 11:34), which in context signifies spiritual clarity and generosity. This 'singleness' contrasts with being 'evil' or 'bad,' implying moral integrity and a focus on God rather than divided loyalties. The word can also carry the sense of 'generous' or 'liberal,' stemming from the idea of a simple, undivided heart that gives freely.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in parallel passages in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, within Jesus's teaching on the 'lamp of the body.' In both Matthew 6:22 and Luke 11:34, Jesus states, 'If your eye is ἁπλοῦς (single/sound), your whole body will be full of light.' The context is a discourse on spiritual priorities, warning against greed and a divided heart. The usage is metaphorical, using the physical health of an eye to represent the spiritual condition of one's inner life and intentions.

Etymology

Derived from the alpha-privative ἀ- ('not' or 'without') and a root related to πλέκω ('to plait' or 'twist'). Thus, its fundamental meaning is 'not folded or braided together,' hence 'single,' 'simple,' or 'without duplicity.' This root idea of being 'unfolded' or 'uncomplicated' developed into the moral senses of sincerity and generosity.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures Jesus's teaching on wholehearted devotion to God. A 'single' (ἁπλοῦς) eye represents an undivided heart, free from the hypocrisy of serving both God and wealth (Matthew 6:24). It connects to key doctrines of sanctification and integrity, emphasizing that spiritual vision and moral action flow from a sincere, focused inner life. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of the Sermon on the Mount by highlighting the call to radical, undivided loyalty.

In the ancient world, the eye was commonly viewed as the window or lamp of the body, revealing a person's inner character and intentions. A 'single' or 'sound' eye was a metaphor for a generous and trustworthy person, while an 'evil' eye (a direct contrast in these verses) was a cultural idiom for stinginess, envy, and a malicious disposition. This contrasts with some modern understandings where an 'evil eye' might be seen as superstition; in Jesus's teaching, it is a moral condition of the heart.

εἰλικρινής (eilikrinēs, G1506) — emphasizes purity and sincerity, being judged by sunlight. καθαρός (katharos, G2513) — focuses on cleanness, purity, and being free from contamination.

Word Details

Scripture References