probably from a primary verb (to join); peace (literally or figuratively); by implication, prosperity:--one, peace, quietness, rest, + set at one again.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term `{{G1515}}` (eirḗnē) is a rich and multifaceted word, often translated as "peace." Its etymological root, stemming from a primary verb meaning "to join" or "to bind together," provides a foundational understanding that extends far beyond the mere absence of conflict. At its core, eirḗnē denotes a state of wholeness, completeness, and harmonious well-being.
Its semantic range encompasses:
* **Cessation of Hostilities:** The literal absence of war or strife between individuals or nations.
* **Inner Tranquility:** A state of quietness, rest, and serenity within the heart and mind, free from anxiety or disturbance.
* **Prosperity and Welfare:** By implication, eirḗnē often refers to a state of flourishing, health, security, and general well-being, encompassing all aspects of life. This aligns closely with the Hebrew concept of `{{H7965}}` (shalom).
* **Reconciliation and Unity:** The restoration of broken relationships, bringing disparate parties "at one again." This aspect underscores the "joining" inherent in its etymology, suggesting a mending of divisions.
Thus, eirḗnē is not merely a negative state (lack of war) but a positive, active condition of holistic well-being and harmonious relationship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{G1515}}` (eirḗnē) appears frequently in the New Testament, particularly in the Pauline epistles, where it often accompanies "grace" in opening and closing salutations (e.g., [[Romans 1:7]], [[Galatians 1:3]]). Its usage reveals several key theological dimensions:
1. **Peace with God:** A paramount theme, especially in Paul's writings. Through Christ's atoning work, believers, once alienated, are reconciled to God, experiencing peace in their relationship with Him. [[Romans 5:1]] declares, "Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This peace is a foundational aspect of salvation.
2. **Christ as Peace:** Jesus Himself is presented as the embodiment and bringer of peace. [[Ephesians 2:14]] states, "For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility." His death on the cross broke down the enmity between God and humanity, and between Jew and Gentile.
3. **The Peace of God:** This refers to the divine tranquility that God imparts to believers, guarding their hearts and minds amidst trials and anxieties. [[Philippians 4:7]] promises, "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." This is an inner calm sustained by divine power.
4. **Peace Among Believers:** eirḗnē is a vital characteristic of the Christian community, promoting unity, harmony, and mutual respect. Believers are exhorted to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace" ([[Ephesians 4:3]]) and to "live in peace" ([[2 Corinthians 13:11]]).
5. **Peace as a Characteristic of the Kingdom:** The Kingdom of God is not merely external but internal, characterized by spiritual realities. [[Romans 14:17]] states, "For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit."
6. **Eschatological Peace:** While peace is experienced in the present, its ultimate and perfect realization awaits the full establishment of God's reign, when all things will be brought into harmony under Christ's headship ([[Colossians 1:20]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
The understanding of `{{G1515}}` (eirḗnē) is significantly enhanced by examining its relationship with other biblical terms and concepts:
* **`{{H7965}}` (shalom):** This is the most crucial parallel. In the Septuagint (LXX), eirḗnē is the primary translation for shalom. The Hebrew shalom carries a profound sense of wholeness, completeness, well-being, prosperity, health, and harmonious relationships, encompassing much more than the absence of conflict. Understanding eirḗnē through the lens of shalom reveals its holistic and positive nature.
* **`{{G1343}}` (dikaiosynē - righteousness):** Often linked with peace, as true peace is a fruit of righteousness. [[Hebrews 12:11]] speaks of "the peaceful fruit of righteousness." Similarly, [[Romans 14:17]] connects righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
* **`{{G5485}}` (charis - grace):** Almost invariably paired with eirḗnē in apostolic greetings, signifying that peace is a divine gift, freely bestowed by God's unmerited favor.
* **`{{G2643}}` (katallagē - reconciliation):** This concept describes the process by which peace is achieved where there was enmity. Christ's work of reconciliation brings about peace between God and humanity.
* **Antonyms:** Words like `{{G4170}}` (polemos - war), `{{G2051}}` (eris - strife), `{{G5014}}` (tarachē - disturbance), and `{{G1456}}` (echthra - enmity) highlight by contrast the positive and harmonious nature of eirḗnē.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1515}}` (eirḗnē) is profound and central to Christian doctrine:
1. **Divine Origin:** Peace is fundamentally a divine attribute and gift. God is consistently referred to as the "God of peace" ([[Romans 15:33]], [[Philippians 4:9]], [[Hebrews 13:20]]), indicating that true peace flows from His very nature and presence.
2. **Christological Centerpiece:** Jesus Christ is the ultimate source and mediator of peace. His incarnation, life, death, and resurrection are all geared towards establishing peace—peace with God, peace within oneself, and peace among humanity. He is the "Prince of Peace" (a concept rooted in [[Isaiah 9:6]]).
3. **Pneumatological Fruit:** Inner peace is a manifestation of the Holy Spirit's work in the believer's life, listed as a fruit of the Spirit in [[Galatians 5:22]]. This underscores that true peace is not self-generated but Spirit-empowered.
4. **Ethical Imperative:** Believers are not merely recipients of peace but are called to be agents of peace. [[Matthew 5:9]] declares, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." This involves actively pursuing peace with all people ([[Hebrews 12:14]]) and resolving conflicts within the community.
5. **Eschatological Hope:** While peace is a present reality for believers, its complete and universal manifestation awaits the consummation of God's kingdom, when all creation will be reconciled and perfected under Christ's rule, bringing an end to all forms of discord and suffering.
### Summary
The Greek word `{{G1515}}` (eirḗnē) signifies far more than the absence of conflict. Rooted in the concept of "joining" or "wholeness," it denotes a comprehensive state of well-being, harmony, prosperity, and reconciliation. Deeply intertwined with the Hebrew `{{H7965}}` (shalom), eirḗnē encompasses both external tranquility and internal serenity. In the New Testament, it is revealed as a divine gift, a central aspect of God's character, and a foundational benefit of Christ's redemptive work, enabling peace with God, inner peace, and peace within the believing community. As a fruit of the Spirit and a mark of God's kingdom, eirḗnē also carries a profound ethical imperative, calling believers to be active peacemakers in a broken world, while simultaneously pointing to the ultimate eschatological hope of perfect harmony under Christ's sovereign reign.
TRV