εὔφημος

well reported of, spoken in a kindly spirit

Definition

The adjective εὔφημος (eyphēmos) fundamentally means 'well spoken of' or 'reputable.' It describes something or someone that is spoken about in a favorable, gracious, or commendable manner. In its only New Testament occurrence in Philippians 4:8, it is part of a list of virtues that believers are to dwell upon, emphasizing thoughts and reports that are praiseworthy and of good repute. The term carries connotations of being laudable and fostering a positive, edifying atmosphere through speech.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Philippians 4:8. Here, the Apostle Paul instructs believers to focus their thoughts on whatever is 'εὔφημος'—translated as 'praiseworthy,' 'commendable,' or 'of good report.' It appears in a list of virtues, indicating its use in an ethical and moral context, specifically guiding the Christian's mindset and the quality of information or reputation they should value and meditate upon.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek components εὖ (eu), meaning 'well' or 'good,' and φήμη (phēmē), meaning 'speech,' 'report,' or 'rumor.' Thus, εὔφημος literally means 'of good speech' or 'well-reported.' It is related to the verb εὐφημέω (euphēmeō, G2162), meaning 'to use words of good omen' or 'to speak well of,' and is the opposite of δυσφημέω (dysphēmeō), meaning 'to defame' or 'speak ill of.'

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it directly informs Christian ethics and discipleship of the mind. In Philippians 4:8, it is not merely about having a positive attitude but about intentionally focusing one's thoughts on what is morally excellent and God-honoring, as reflected in a good reputation. It connects to the biblical theme of guarding one's heart and mind (Proverbs 4:23) and the transformative power of renewing the mind (Romans 12:2). Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting that Christian virtue involves actively selecting and dwelling upon thoughts and reports that align with truth, purity, and loveliness.

In the Greco-Roman world, public reputation and honor were paramount. To be 'well spoken of' (εὔφημος) was a key social asset. Paul's use of this term would have resonated with his audience, who valued public esteem. However, he reorients this cultural value by placing it within a distinctly Christian ethical framework—what is praiseworthy is now defined by its alignment with the other virtues listed (true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable) and, ultimately, with the character of God.

ἔπαινος (epainos, G1868) — 'praise'; more focused on the act of commending rather than the state of being commendable. καλός (kalos, G2570) — 'good,' 'beautiful,' 'noble'; a broader term for intrinsic moral and aesthetic goodness. ἀγαθός (agathos, G18) — 'good,' 'beneficial'; emphasizes inherent goodness and usefulness.

Word Details

Scripture References