γνώμη

opinion, counsel, judgment, intention

Definition

γνώμη (gnōmē) primarily means a personal opinion, judgment, or intention formed in the mind. In the New Testament, it can refer to a settled personal conviction or advice, as when Paul gives his 'judgment' on marriage (1 Corinthians 7:25). It also denotes a shared purpose or unanimous decision, such as the 'common mind' or 'agreement' sought among believers (1 Corinthians 1:10) and the 'purpose' of the ten kings in Revelation (Revelation 17:13, 17). In some contexts, it carries the sense of a gracious intention or goodwill, as seen in Paul's discussion of giving (2 Corinthians 8:10).

Biblical Usage

The word is used eight times, primarily in Paul's letters (1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Philemon) and Revelation. Paul uses it to express his apostolic counsel (1 Corinthians 7:25, 40), to urge church unity (1 Corinthians 1:10), and to describe benevolent intent (2 Corinthians 8:10; Philemon 1:14). In Revelation, it describes the unified, divinely-directed purpose of earthly powers (Revelation 17:13, 17). The usage in Acts 20:3 references a plot or 'purpose' against Paul.

Etymology

Derived from the verb γινώσκω (ginōskō, G1097), meaning 'to know, perceive, understand.' Thus, γνώμη fundamentally refers to the product of knowing—a formed opinion, judgment, or resolution based on understanding. It is related to other knowledge-words like γνῶσις (gnōsis, G1108), which is knowledge itself.

Semantic Range

γνώμη is significant for understanding Christian community and God's sovereignty. It highlights the tension between personal conviction and communal unity in the church (1 Corinthians 1:10). In Revelation, it reveals that even the hostile plans of nations are under God's ultimate control, fulfilling His decree (Revelation 17:17). Understanding this word enriches reading by showing how human judgments and divine purposes interact.

In Greek thought, γνώμη was a valued intellectual and ethical concept, representing practical wisdom, sound judgment, and a reasoned opinion. In the New Testament, this cultural weight is adapted, often placing human 'judgment' in submission to God's will or the good of the Christian community.

βουλή (boulē, G1012) — a deliberate plan or counsel, often with a more formal or divine connotation. κρίμα (krima, G2917) — a judicial verdict or condemnation. δόγμα (dogma, G1378) — a formal decree or ordinance, often public or authoritative.

Word Details

Scripture References