from εὖ and γίνομαι; well born, i.e. (literally) high in rank, or (figuratively) generous:--more noble, nobleman.
Transliteration:eugenḗs
Pronunciation:yoog-en'-ace
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term εὐγενής (eugenḗs), Strong's `{{G2104}}`, is a compound word derived from εὖ (eu), meaning "well" or "good," and γίνομαι (ginomai), meaning "to become" or "to be born." Thus, its etymological root points to the concept of being "well-born" or "nobly born." This foundational meaning gives rise to two primary semantic ranges in the New Testament.
Literally, εὐγενής refers to someone of high social standing, aristocratic lineage, or noble birth. It denotes a person who belongs to the upper echelons of society by virtue of their family origin, implying inherent prestige and authority.
Figuratively, the word transcends mere social status to describe a quality of character. In this sense, εὐγενής signifies a "noble" disposition, characterized by generosity, magnanimity, intellectual openness, and a sincere pursuit of truth. It speaks to an inherent integrity and a readiness to receive and examine information with an unprejudiced mind, rather than clinging to preconceived notions or social prejudices.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term εὐγενής appears twice in the New Testament, each instance illustrating one of its distinct semantic ranges:
1. **Literal Sense (High Rank):** In [[Luke 19:12]], the word is used in the Parable of the Minas: "A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and then return." Here, the Greek εὐγενής clearly denotes a person of high birth and social standing, a prince or aristocrat, who has a legitimate claim to a kingdom. The context emphasizes his inherent authority and the expectation of his return to rule, which is a key element of the parable's allegorical meaning regarding Christ's kingship and eventual return.
2. **Figurative Sense (Noble Character):** The most significant and oft-cited use of εὐγενής is found in [[Acts 17:11]], describing the Bereans: "Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so." Here, the comparison is not about social status or wealth, as the Bereans are contrasted with the Thessalonians based on their spiritual disposition. Their "nobility" is characterized by:
* **Readiness to receive the word:** An eager and open heart to hear the gospel message.
* **Diligent searching of the Scriptures:** A commitment to verify what they heard against the established Word of God, demonstrating critical thinking and a deep respect for truth.
This passage profoundly redefines "nobility" from a matter of birthright to a quality of spiritual and intellectual integrity. It highlights a humility and earnestness in seeking truth that transcends social distinctions.
### Related Words & Concepts
The etymological components of εὐγενής connect it to broader concepts of origin and goodness:
* εὖ (eu - well, good) `{{G2095}}`: This prefix is common in Greek and denotes excellence or positivity, reinforcing the inherent "goodness" or "rightness" associated with the word.
* γίνομαι (ginomai - to become, be born) `{{G1096}}`: This root connects εὐγενής to concepts of lineage, generation, and origin, as seen in words like γενεά (genea - generation, race) `{{G1074}}` and γένος (genos - race, stock, kind) `{{G1085}}`. These highlight the idea of being "of a certain kind" or "from a certain stock."
Conceptually, εὐγενής in its literal sense aligns with societal ideas of aristocracy, inherited privilege, and high social standing. However, its figurative use in [[Acts 17:11]] introduces a spiritual parallel, contrasting worldly nobility with a *spiritual* nobility. This spiritual nobility is related to:
* **Discernment:** The ability to rightly evaluate truth.
* **Humility:** A willingness to learn and be corrected by Scripture.
* **Diligence:** Persistent effort in seeking God's truth.
* **Open-mindedness:** A receptivity to new revelation, even if it challenges existing beliefs.
### Theological Significance
The dual usage of εὐγενής offers rich theological insight. In [[Luke 19:12]], the "nobleman" serves as a type for Christ, emphasizing His inherent authority and divine right to rule. He is the one "well-born" in the ultimate sense, being the Son of God, and His journey to receive a kingdom speaks to His rightful sovereignty and future reign.
However, the usage in [[Acts 17:11]] carries profound theological weight by redefining nobility. It shifts the focus from external, inherited status to internal, spiritual character. The Bereans are deemed "more noble" not because of their social rank or wealth, but because of their spiritual receptivity and their commitment to verifying truth against the Scriptures. This challenges the world's criteria for greatness and elevates spiritual virtues.
This passage underscores several key theological principles:
* **The primacy of Scripture:** True nobility is demonstrated by a willingness to test all teachings against the infallible Word of God.
* **Active faith:** Faith is not passive acceptance but involves diligent inquiry and personal engagement with truth.
* **Accessibility of true nobility:** Unlike worldly nobility which is limited by birth, spiritual nobility is accessible to all who possess a sincere heart and a hunger for truth, regardless of their social standing. This aligns with God's pattern of choosing the "lowly" and "despised" to shame the "wise" and "strong" ([[1 Corinthians 1:26-29]]).
### Summary
The Greek word εὐγενής (eugenḗs) `{{G2104}}` carries a dual meaning: literally referring to someone of noble birth or high social rank, and figuratively denoting a person of noble character, marked by generosity, integrity, and intellectual openness. While [[Luke 19:12]] employs the literal sense to describe a "nobleman" representative of Christ's sovereignty, [[Acts 17:11]] offers a transformative redefinition. In this pivotal passage, the Bereans are lauded as "more noble-minded" not due to their social standing, but because of their earnest receptivity to the gospel and their diligent, daily examination of the Scriptures. This highlights a profound theological truth: true nobility in the eyes of God is not an inherited status but a spiritual virtue, characterized by a humble, discerning, and truth-seeking heart that prioritizes God's Word above all else. The example of the Bereans remains a timeless model for believers seeking spiritual maturity and discernment.
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