from a presumed compound of εὖ and the base of δοκέω; satisfaction, i.e. (subjectively) delight, or (objectively) kindness, wish, purpose:--desire, good pleasure (will), X seem good.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **eudokía**, represented by `{{G2107}}`, conveys a sense of **satisfaction** or **delight**. It appears **9 times** across **9 unique verses** in the Bible. The term describes a subjective delight or an objective kindness, wish, or purpose, and is often translated as "good pleasure," "good will," or "desire."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2107}}` is predominantly used to express God's sovereign and benevolent will. It is the basis for His plan of salvation, as believers are predestined for adoption "according to the **good pleasure** of his will" [[Ephesians 1:5]]. This divine satisfaction is also the source of peace, as announced by the angels at Jesus' birth: "on earth peace, **good will** toward men" [[Luke 2:14]]. Jesus affirms this concept, thanking the Father because revealing truths to "babes" is what "seemed **good** in thy sight" [[Luke 10:21]]. The word can also describe human motivation, such as Paul's heartfelt **desire** for Israel's salvation [[Romans 10:1]] or as a positive contrast to those who preach Christ out of envy and strife [[Philippians 1:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G2107}}`:
* `{{G2307}}` **thélēma** (desire, pleasure, will): This word for "will" or "purpose" is directly linked to `{{G2107}}`, showing that God's good pleasure is the foundation of His active will [[Ephesians 1:5]].
* `{{G4309}}` **proorízō** (to predetermine): This term describes the act of predestination, which is carried out according to the "good pleasure" `{{G2107}}` of God's will [[Ephesians 1:5]].
* `{{G5355}}` **phthónos** (envy): This term for ill-will or jealousy is used in direct opposition to `{{G2107}}`, contrasting the selfish motives of some preachers with those who preach from "good will" [[Philippians 1:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2107}}` is significant, highlighting the nature of God's will and its effect on humanity.
* **God's Purposeful Delight:** The term reveals that God's sovereign plans are not arbitrary but flow from a place of satisfaction and delight. He acts according to His "good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself" [[Ephesians 1:9]].
* **The Foundation of Salvation:** God's good will is the originating cause of salvation. It is His pleasure that leads to predestination and adoption [[Ephesians 1:5]], and it is His good pleasure that is fulfilled through the work of faith and power in the believer's life [[2 Thessalonians 1:11]].
* **The Source of Human Action:** `{{G2107}}` is presented as the divine standard for action. God himself "worketh in you both to will and to do of his **good pleasure**" [[Philippians 2:13]], moving believers beyond selfish motivations like strife and envy.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2107}}` is a crucial term for understanding divine motivation. It signifies more than a passive wish; it is an active, purposeful delight that serves as the foundation for God's sovereign will, His plan of salvation, and the work He accomplishes in and through believers. It frames God's actions not in mere duty, but in His own perfect and benevolent satisfaction.
TRV