### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective εἰλικρινής (eilikrinḗs), Strong's number `{{G1506}}`, is a compound word derived from two elements: εἴλη (eilē), meaning "the sun's ray" or "sunlight," and κρίνω (krinō), meaning "to judge," "to discern," or "to separate." The etymological root thus paints a vivid picture: something "judged by sunlight," implying a thorough examination in the clearest possible light to reveal its true nature.
Semantically, εἰλικρινής refers to that which is pure, unadulterated, and without admixture. It denotes a genuineness that stands up to scrutiny, free from hidden motives, deceit, or hypocrisy. The concept is one of transparency and integrity, where inner character matches outward appearance. It can be translated as "pure," "sincere," "unmixed," or "genuine." This purity is not merely ceremonial but deeply moral and spiritual, signifying an unblemished quality of heart and mind.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term εἰλικρινής appears twice in the New Testament, offering specific contexts that illuminate its meaning:
1. **[[Philippians 1:10]]**: "that you may approve things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ." Here, Paul prays for the Philippian believers to possess a discernment (ἵνα δοκιμάζητε τὰ διαφέροντα) that leads to a particular quality of life. The word εἰλικρινεῖς (the plural form of εἰλικρινής) is coupled with ἀπροσκόπους (aproskopous), meaning "without offense" or "blameless." This pairing suggests a moral integrity that avoids causing stumbling blocks to others and remains unimpeachable in the sight of God. The phrase "till the day of Christ" underscores the eschatological dimension of this purity, indicating a steadfast and enduring genuineness required for the believer's presentation before the Lord. It implies a character that can withstand divine scrutiny.
2. **[[2 Peter 3:1]]**: "This is now the second letter I am writing to you, beloved, in which I am stirring up your sincere mind by way of reminder." Peter uses εἰλικρινῆ (the accusative singular form) to describe the διάνοιαν (dianoian), or "mind," of his readers. A "sincere mind" here refers to a pure, unadulterated, and unmixed understanding or disposition. It contrasts with a mind clouded by false teaching, deceit, or spiritual apathy. Peter's aim is to awaken their genuine spiritual perception, urging them to recall and adhere to the pure truth of the apostolic teaching, free from the corrupting influences of scoffers and false teachers. This indicates that εἰλικρινής pertains not only to moral conduct but also to intellectual and spiritual clarity.
In both instances, εἰλικρινής describes an internal quality—of character and mind—that manifests in blameless conduct and pure understanding, essential for the Christian walk and for standing before God.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of "purity" and "sincerity" conveyed by εἰλικρινής resonates with several other significant Greek terms and theological concepts:
* **κρίνω (krinō)** `{{G2919}}`: The root verb "to judge" or "to discern" is fundamental to εἰλικρινής. It highlights the idea of a standard by which something is evaluated, in this case, the revealing light of truth.
* **καθαρός (katharos)** `{{G2513}}`: Meaning "clean," "pure," or "undefiled." While καθαρός can refer to ritual or physical cleanliness, it also extends to moral purity (e.g., "pure in heart" in [[Matthew 5:8]]). εἰλικρινής emphasizes the internal genuineness that produces such purity.
* **ἀκήρατος (akeratos)** `{{G197}}`: Meaning "unmixed," "pure," "unadulterated." This word, often used for metals or wine, conveys a similar idea of lack of corruption, sometimes translated as "innocent" or "harmless" in a moral sense (e.g., [[Romans 16:19]]).
* **ἁγνός (hagnos)** `{{G53}}` / **ἁγνότης (hagnotēs)** `{{G54}}`: "Holy," "pure," "chaste." These terms often describe a consecrated purity, set apart for God, both outwardly and inwardly.
* **ἀπρόσκοπος (aproskopos)** `{{G677}}`: "Without offense," "blameless," "not causing to stumble." As seen in [[Philippians 1:10]], this word often accompanies εἰλικρινής, emphasizing the outward manifestation of inner sincerity.
* **ὑποκριτής (hypokritēs)** `{{G5273}}`: "Hypocrite," "actor." This term stands in stark contrast to εἰλικρινής, representing the one whose outward appearance or profession is not consistent with their inner reality.
* **δόλος (dolos)** `{{G1388}}`: "Deceit," "guile," "craftiness." The absence of δόλος is a hallmark of εἰλικρινής, which signifies transparency and straightforwardness.
The concept of being "tested by light" also brings to mind the imagery of God's omniscience and the revelatory power of His Word, which exposes the true nature of all things (e.g., [[Hebrews 4:12-13]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of εἰλικρινής is profound, touching upon the nature of God, the character of the believer, and the eschatological hope.
Firstly, the etymological root ("judged by sunlight") subtly points to God as the ultimate light and standard of truth. Just as sunlight exposes impurities, so God's divine presence and Word illuminate the heart, revealing what is genuine and what is counterfeit. To be εἰλικρινής is to be able to stand in the full light of God's scrutiny without blemish.
Secondly, for the believer, εἰλικρινής calls for an authentic and unmixed faith. It moves beyond mere outward conformity to an inward disposition of integrity. This "sincere mind" (as in [[2 Peter 3:1]]) is crucial for discerning truth from error and for maintaining spiritual steadfastness. It implies a single-hearted devotion, free from duplicity or ulterior motives, which is vital for genuine worship and service.
Thirdly, the link in [[Philippians 1:10]] to "the day of Christ" underscores the eschatological dimension of this purity. Believers are called to live with such sincerity that they will be found "without offense" when Christ returns. This is not a call to human perfectionism, but to a continuous striving for genuine character, relying on the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit. It speaks to the ultimate goal of Christian discipleship: to be presented blameless before the Lord.
Finally, εἰλικρινής stands as a powerful counterpoint to hypocrisy and deceit, which are repeatedly condemned in Scripture. It emphasizes that true spirituality is rooted in an inner reality that aligns with God's truth, rather than in external performance or pretense.
### Summary
The Greek word εἰλικρινής (eilikrinḗs), Strong's number `{{G1506}}`, signifies a profound moral and spiritual purity, derived from the concept of being "judged by sunlight" and thus proven genuine. It describes a character that is sincere, unmixed, and free from deceit or impurity, standing up to the clearest scrutiny.
Its two New Testament occurrences highlight its importance: in [[Philippians 1:10]], it denotes the blameless integrity required of believers as they await the day of Christ, emphasizing a life lived "without offense." In [[2 Peter 3:1]], it refers to a "sincere mind," indicating a pure and unadulterated understanding essential for spiritual discernment amidst false teachings.
Theologically, εἰλικρινής underscores the divine standard of truth, calling believers to an authentic faith that manifests in both pure conduct and clear understanding. It contrasts sharply with hypocrisy and deceit, emphasizing the internal reality of one's devotion. Ultimately, it speaks to the Christian's calling to live a life of transparent integrity, prepared to stand unashamed in the revealing light of God's presence.
TRV