### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **agathōsýnē**, represented by `{{G19}}`, signifies **goodness**, virtue, or beneficence. Derived from ἀγαθός, it is a specific term for moral excellence. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, indicating its focused but significant role in describing a key aspect of Christian character.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural usage, `{{G19}}` consistently denotes a virtue that originates from a divine source. It is listed as part of the "fruit of the Spirit" in both Galatians and Ephesians, placing it among core Christian attributes like love and peace ([[Galatians 5:22]], [[Ephesians 5:9]]). Paul's prayer in 2 Thessalonians connects it directly to God's character, asking that God would "fulfil all the good pleasure of his **goodness**" in the believers [[2 Thessalonians 1:11]]. Furthermore, it is presented as a practical quality that, when coupled with knowledge, equips believers to admonish one another, as seen when Paul expresses his confidence that the Roman Christians are "full of **goodness**" [[Romans 15:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to illuminate the concept of **agathōsýnē**:
* `{{G1343}}` **dikaiosýnē** (righteousness): Defined as equity or justification, this virtue is presented alongside goodness as a fruit of the Spirit, highlighting a character that is both morally excellent and just [[Ephesians 5:9]].
* `{{G1108}}` **gnōsis** (knowledge): This term for knowing or knowledge is paired with goodness to show that true virtue is accompanied by understanding, enabling believers to provide sound admonition [[Romans 15:14]].
* `{{G5544}}` **chrēstótēs** (gentleness): Meaning usefulness or excellence in character, it appears in the same list as goodness, suggesting a tandem relationship between active beneficence and a kind demeanor as part of the Spirit's work [[Galatians 5:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{G19}}` is clear from its specific contexts.
* **A Product of the Spirit:** **Goodness** is not presented as an innate human ability but as a direct result of the Holy Spirit's work in a believer's life. It is an integral part of the fruit the Spirit produces ([[Galatians 5:22]], [[Ephesians 5:9]]).
* **Reflection of Divine Character:** The term is used to describe an attribute of God Himself, whose own **goodness** is the source of His "good pleasure" and is fulfilled in believers by His power [[2 Thessalonians 1:11]].
* **Essential for Community:** When believers are "full of **goodness**," they are considered equipped for the vital ministry of mutual admonishment, demonstrating that this virtue is foundational for healthy church life [[Romans 15:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G19}}` is a concise yet powerful term describing more than just a general sense of being good. It is a Spirit-produced virtue, a reflection of God's own nature, that manifests as active beneficence and moral excellence. When combined with righteousness and knowledge, it forms a cornerstone of Christian character that empowers believers to build one another up in the faith.
TRV