εὐμετάδοτος

willingly sharing, ready to impart

Definition

εὐμετάδοτος describes a person who is not only generous but eager and ready to share their resources with others. It emphasizes a willing, proactive disposition toward generosity, going beyond mere obligation to a heartfelt readiness to impart. In its sole New Testament occurrence, it is used to instruct the wealthy to be 'ready to share' (1 Timothy 6:18), linking material generosity directly to spiritual investment and eternal life. The word carries a sense of openness and liberality, characterizing a fundamental Christian virtue.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in 1 Timothy 6:18. Here, the Apostle Paul instructs those who are rich in the present world to be 'rich in good deeds,' which includes being 'generous and willing to share' (NIV). The context is a pastoral charge on the proper use of wealth, contrasting the dangers of loving money with the command to be proactively generous, thus storing up treasure for the coming age.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek prefix εὖ (eu), meaning 'well' or 'good,' and the verb μεταδίδωμι (metadidōmi, G3330), meaning 'to share,' 'to impart,' or 'to give a share of.' The compound thus literally means 'well-sharing' or 'good at imparting.' It inherently describes a positive, virtuous quality of character related to the act of giving.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it defines a key characteristic of faithful stewardship, especially for those with material means. It moves generosity from a passive act to an active, willing disposition of the heart, reflecting God's own generous nature (James 1:5). Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of 1 Timothy 6:17-19 by highlighting that Christian generosity is not a reluctant duty but a ready and eager participation in God's economy, which builds eternal foundation.

In the Greco-Roman world, philanthropy and patronage were common, but often for social prestige or reciprocal obligation. Paul's use of εὐμετάδοτος, especially directed at the wealthy, re-frames generosity within the Christian community. It is not for public honor but is an expression of love and a transfer of trust from uncertain riches to the living God, challenging cultural norms of wealth accumulation and status.

μεταδίδωμι (metadidōmi, G3330) — the root verb meaning 'to share' or 'to impart,' focusing on the action itself. ἁπλότης (haplotēs, G572) — simplicity, sincerity, or generosity, emphasizing singleness of heart in giving. φιλανθρωπία (philanthrōpia, G5363) — love for humankind, kindness, often with a broader, more general sense of benevolence.

Word Details

Scripture References