### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **agathopoiḯa**, represented by `{{G16}}`, means **well-doing** or **virtue**. It is derived from the word ἀγαθοποιός. Despite its significant meaning, it is a very rare term in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. This focused usage gives its single appearance a particular weight and clarity of purpose.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The only use of `{{G16}}` is found in [[1 Peter 4:19]], which provides a specific context for its meaning. The verse instructs those who **suffer** `{{G3958}}` according to the **will** `{{G2307}}` of **God** `{{G2316}}` to **commit** `{{G3908}}` their **souls** `{{G5590}}` to Him in **well doing** `{{G16}}`. This connects the practice of virtue directly to the experience of suffering, positioning it as an act of faith and trust in a **faithful** `{{G4103}}` **Creator** `{{G2939}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context clarify the meaning of `{{G16}}`:
* `{{G3958}}` **páschō** (suffer): Defined as "to experience a sensation or impression (usually painful)," this word establishes the challenging circumstances in which well-doing is expected. The instruction is specifically for those who suffer [[1 Peter 4:19]].
* `{{G3908}}` **paratíthēmi** (commit the keeping of): Meaning "to place alongside, i.e. present...by implication, to deposit (as a trust or for protection)." This action of entrusting one's soul to God is performed through the practice of `{{G16}}`.
* `{{G2939}}` **ktístēs** (Creator): This term, meaning "a founder, i.e. God (as author of all things)," identifies the one to whom believers commit their souls. His identity as the Creator provides the foundation for trust while engaging in well-doing during suffering [[1 Peter 4:19]].
* `{{G2307}}` **thélēma** (will): This word for "a determination... choice (specially, purpose, decree; abstractly, volition)" frames the suffering as being within the scope of God's will, giving purpose to the believer's response of well-doing [[1 Peter 4:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G16}}` is concentrated in its sole appearance:
* **Active Virtue in Trial:** The term commands more than passive endurance; it calls for active **well doing**. It reframes suffering not as a reason to cease from good works, but as the very context in which they are to be practiced.
* **An Expression of Trust:** Committing one's soul to God **in well doing** [[1 Peter 4:19]] is a tangible expression of faith. It demonstrates a belief in the faithfulness of the **Creator** `{{G2939}}` even when circumstances are painful.
* **Alignment with God's Purpose:** Because the suffering is "according to the **will** of **God**" [[1 Peter 4:19]], the act of **well doing** `{{G16}}` is the believer's righteous response that aligns with God's sovereign plan.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G16}}` **agathopoiḯa** is a concise and powerful term. Though used only once, its meaning is profound. It defines **well doing** as the proper and faithful response for a believer experiencing suffering that is within God's will. It is an active demonstration of trust, where one commits their soul to a faithful Creator by continuing in virtue, regardless of hardship.
TRV