εὐγενής

of noble birth, noble

Definition

The adjective εὐγενής primarily means 'of noble birth' or 'well-born,' referring to someone from a high social class or aristocratic lineage. In Luke 19:12, it describes a 'nobleman' who travels to receive a kingdom, emphasizing his high status. In a more figurative sense, it can denote 'noble' in character or quality, as seen in Acts 17:11, where the Bereans are called 'more noble' (εὐγενέστεροι) for their receptive and diligent attitude toward the gospel message. This dual sense—both social and moral—captures the word's range in the New Testament.

Biblical Usage

Εὐγενής appears three times in the New Testament. In Luke 19:12, it is used literally for a man of noble birth in a parable. In Acts 17:11, it is applied metaphorically to describe the Bereans' noble character in examining the Scriptures. In 1 Corinthians 1:26, Paul uses it negatively, noting that not many in the Corinthian church were 'of noble birth' according to worldly standards, highlighting God's choice of the seemingly foolish and weak. The usage thus spans narrative, commendation, and rhetorical contrast.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek elements εὖ (eu, 'well' or 'good') and γένος (genos, 'birth,' 'race,' or 'kind'). Literally, it means 'well-born.' This compound formation is straightforward, with the meaning closely tied to its roots, emphasizing excellence in origin, whether by family lineage or inherent quality.

Semantic Range

This word highlights a biblical tension between worldly and spiritual nobility. In 1 Corinthians 1:26, Paul subverts earthly status, showing God's grace often operates apart from human prestige. The commendation in Acts 17:11 links nobility not to birth but to a heart eager for God's word. Understanding εὐγενής enriches reading by revealing how the New Testament redefines true honor and excellence in terms of faith and obedience rather than social standing.

In the Greco-Roman world, being εὐγενής conveyed significant social privilege, honor, and often wealth associated with aristocratic families. This cultural understanding makes Paul's point in 1 Corinthians 1:26 striking—the church was largely composed of people without such status. The metaphorical use in Acts 17:11 borrows this cultural ideal of excellence and applies it to moral and spiritual diligence, a meaningful adaptation for original readers.

γενναῖος (gennaios, G1084) — emphasizes nobility of character or being high-minded. εὐσχήμων (euschēmōn, G2158) — refers to being respectable or of good standing, often in a social or external sense.

Word Details

Scripture References