from εὔθυμος; to cheer up, i.e. (intransitively) be cheerful; neuter comparative (adverbially) more cheerfully:--be of good cheer (merry).
Transliteration:euthyméō
Pronunciation:yoo-thoo-meh'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb εὐθυμέω (euthyméō / G2114) is derived from the adjective εὔθυμος (euthymos), which is a compound of εὖ (eu), meaning "good" or "well," and θυμός (thymos), referring to the spirit, temper, or courage. Thus, the core meaning of εὐθυμέω is "to be in good spirits," "to be cheerful," or "to be of good courage." It denotes an internal state of positive disposition, buoyancy, or resolve. The semantic range extends from a general sense of cheerfulness or merriment to a more specific courage or hopefulness, particularly in the face of challenging circumstances. It describes an inner fortitude that allows one to maintain a positive outlook.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
εὐθυμέω appears three times in the New Testament, offering significant insights into its usage:
* **[[Acts 27:22]]**: In the midst of a violent storm at sea, with all hope of survival fading, the Apostle Paul encourages the terrified crew and passengers, declaring, "But now I urge you to be of good cheer (εὐθυμεῖτε), for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship." Here, εὐθυμεῖτε is a command to embrace courage and hope, not based on immediate circumstances, but on a divine revelation given to Paul. It is an exhortation to trust in God's promise despite overwhelming peril.
* **[[Acts 27:25]]**: Paul reiterates his encouragement, stating, "Therefore take heart (εὐθυμεῖτε), men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me." This repetition underscores the necessity of a courageous and hopeful disposition, directly linked to faith in God's word. The cheerfulness is not a superficial emotion but a deep-seated confidence born of divine assurance.
* **[[Acts 27:36]]**: Following Paul's example of breaking bread and giving thanks, the text notes, "Then they all were of good cheer (εὐθύμησαν) and themselves also took food." This verse demonstrates the effect of Paul's encouragement and the shared meal. The internal state of cheerfulness, previously commanded, becomes a lived reality for the entire company, enabling them to regain strength and face the ongoing ordeal.
* **[[James 5:13]]**: The final occurrence is in a different context: "Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful (εὐθυμεῖ)? Let him sing praise." Here, εὐθυμεῖ stands in contrast to suffering (πάσχω). It refers to a state of well-being, joy, or contentment that naturally prompts a response of praise and worship to God. This usage highlights εὐθυμέω as an appropriate spiritual disposition in times of blessing.
### Related Words & Concepts
εὐθυμέω is closely related to several other Greek terms that convey aspects of courage, joy, or inner disposition:
* **εὔθυμος (euthymos)**: The root adjective, meaning "of good cheer" or "courageous."
* **θύμος (thymos)**: The noun for "spirit," "passion," or "courage," from which the latter part of εὐθυμέω is derived.
* **θαρσέω (tharseō / G2292) / θαρρέω (tharreo / G2293)**: These verbs also mean "to be of good courage" or "to take heart," and are often translated similarly to εὐθυμέω (e.g., Jesus' command "Take heart" in [[Matthew 9:2]] or [[John 16:33]]). While overlapping in the sense of courage, εὐθυμέω often emphasizes an inner state of cheerfulness or well-being, whereas θαρσέω can be a more direct command to be brave.
* **χαίρω (chairō / G5463)**: To rejoice, be glad. While cheerfulness (euthyméō) can lead to rejoicing (chairō), χαίρω is a broader term for expressing joy, whereas εὐθυμέω focuses on the internal state of being well-spirited.
* **ἀγαλλιάω (agalliaō / G21)**: To exult, to rejoice greatly, often with an outward expression of jubilant joy.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of εὐθυμέω is profound, particularly in its demonstration of faith and God's providence.
* **Faith in Divine Providence**: In the Acts narrative, εὐθυμέω is not a call to blind optimism but to a courage grounded in God's revealed will. Paul's exhortation to "be of good cheer" is a profound act of faith, trusting that God's word will prevail over the most daunting natural forces. It teaches that true cheerfulness for the believer is rooted in the certainty of God's sovereign control and His faithfulness to His promises.
* **Resilience in Adversity**: The word highlights a spiritual resilience. It is a disposition that allows believers to maintain a positive and hopeful spirit even in dire circumstances. This is not a denial of hardship but a confident reliance on a greater power. It exemplifies how faith can transform fear into courage and despair into hope.
* **Appropriate Response to God's Blessings**: In James, εὐθυμεῖ signifies that cheerfulness and well-being are appropriate conditions for offering praise to God. This suggests that a joyful and grateful heart is a natural outflow of experiencing God's goodness, and it forms a vital part of worship.
* **Christian Witness**: Paul's demonstration of εὐθυμέω in Acts 27 serves as a powerful witness. His calm and courageous demeanor, rooted in his faith, not only encouraged the believers but also influenced the unbelievers on board, leading them to partake in the sustenance and renewed hope. This shows that a believer's inner peace can be a beacon of hope to a desperate world.
### Summary
εὐθυμέω (euthyméō / G2114) describes the state of being cheerful, in good spirits, or courageous. Its New Testament usage reveals its dual significance: as a divinely-grounded call to courageous faith and hope amidst extreme adversity (Acts), and as an appropriate, joyful disposition leading to praise in times of well-being (James). The word underscores that a believer's inner disposition should be one of resilient cheerfulness, not born of naivety, but deeply rooted in trust in God's providential care and His unfailing word. It signifies a spiritual fortitude that enables believers to navigate both trials and blessings with a heart inclined toward God.
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