from εὖ and λαμβάνω; taking well (carefully), i.e. circumspect (religiously, pious):--devout.
Transliteration:eulabḗs
Pronunciation:yoo-lab-ace'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective εὐλαβής (G2126, *eulabḗs*) is derived from the Greek adverb εὖ (well, good) and the verb λαμβάνω (G2983, *lambanō*, to take, grasp, receive). This etymological foundation suggests a core meaning of "taking well," "handling carefully," or "being circumspect." In a religious context, this translates to a careful, cautious, and reverent attitude towards divine matters. It denotes a person who is "devout" or "pious," characterized not by a servile fear, but by a profound respect and awe that leads to careful and conscientious conduct. The semantic range thus encompasses a thoughtful circumspection, a reverent caution, and a deep, active piety that shapes one's actions and disposition before God. It implies a sensitivity to spiritual realities and a desire to act in a manner pleasing to the divine.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term εὐλαβής appears three times in the New Testament, each instance illuminating its nuanced meaning:
1. **[[Luke 2:25]]**: We are introduced to Simeon, a man in Jerusalem described as "righteous and devout" (δίκαιος καὶ εὐλαβής). This pairing of attributes is significant. "Righteous" (δίκαιος, `{{G1342}}`) speaks to his conformity to God's moral standards, while "devout" (εὐλαβής) highlights his reverent caution and deep piety in spiritual matters. Simeon was "awaiting the consolation of Israel," indicating a life lived in expectant faith and careful adherence to God's promises, demonstrating the active, anticipatory nature of this devoutness. His εὐλαβής character made him receptive to the Holy Spirit's guidance and prepared him to recognize the Messiah.
2. **[[Acts 2:5]]**: On the day of Pentecost, Luke notes, "Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven" (Ἰουδαῖοι, ἄνδρες εὐλαβεῖς ἀπὸ παντὸς ἔθνους). These "devout men" were not merely residents but pilgrims, drawn to Jerusalem for the Feast of Weeks, signifying their serious commitment to their faith and their reverent observance of Jewish law and tradition. Their presence underscores that εὐλαβής describes individuals who are earnest in their religious practice and deeply respectful of God's ways, making them prime witnesses to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
3. **[[Acts 8:2]]**: After Stephen's martyrdom, "Devout men carried Stephen to his burial and made loud lamentation over him" (Συνεκόμισαν δὲ τὸν Στέφανον ἄνδρες εὐλαβεῖς καὶ ἐποίησαν κοπετὸν μέγαν ἐπ’ αὐτῷ). In a context of intense persecution, these "devout men" showed remarkable courage and reverence. Their actions were not impulsive but stemmed from a deep respect for Stephen and a pious commitment that transcended fear of reprisal. This demonstrates that εὐλαβής can also imply moral courage born of conviction and a profound sense of duty before God, even in the face of danger.
In each instance, εὐλαβής describes individuals whose piety is active, sincere, and rooted in a deep reverence for God, leading to specific, commendable actions.
### Related Words & Concepts
The word εὐλαβής (G2126) is part of a family of related Greek terms that share the same root, emphasizing aspects of reverence and caution:
* **εὐλάβεια (G2124)**: The noun form, meaning "reverence," "awe," "godly fear," or "piety." It denotes the feeling or attitude of respectful caution towards God (e.g., [[Hebrews 5:7]], [[Hebrews 12:28]]).
* **εὐλαβέομαι (G2125)**: The verb form, meaning "to be cautious," "to revere," or "to fear" (e.g., [[Hebrews 11:7]], where Noah, "being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverent fear constructed an ark").
Other related concepts and synonyms include:
* **εὐσεβής (G2152)**: "Pious," "godly," emphasizing outward acts of piety and devotion. While similar, εὐλαβής often carries a stronger nuance of inward reverence and cautious respect.
* **δίκαιος (G1342)**: "Righteous," often paired with εὐλαβής (as in Simeon), signifying moral uprightness.
* **ὅσιος (G3741)**: "Holy," "pious," "devout," often referring to one's relationship with God (e.g., [[Acts 2:27]], [[1 Timothy 2:8]]).
In the Old Testament, the concept of "the fear of the Lord" (`{{H3372}}`, *yir'ah*) is a strong parallel. This "fear" is not terror but a profound, reverential awe that leads to obedience and wisdom (e.g., [[Proverbs 9:10]], [[Psalm 111:10]]). εὐλαβής in the New Testament captures this same essence of respectful caution and deep piety.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of εὐλαβής lies in its portrayal of genuine piety. It describes a spiritual posture characterized by:
1. **Reverent Awe**: It is a profound respect for God's holiness, power, and majesty. This awe is not paralyzing fear but an active reverence that shapes one's thoughts and actions.
2. **Careful Obedience**: The "taking well" aspect implies a meticulous attention to God's commands and will. A εὐλαβής person is one who is careful not to offend God or transgress His word, demonstrating a life lived in conscientious submission.
3. **Spiritual Sensitivity**: The individuals described as εὐλαβής (Simeon, the Jews at Pentecost, Stephen's mourners) are portrayed as being particularly attuned to divine leading and purpose. Their piety makes them receptive to God's work in the world.
4. **Foundation for True Faith**: This quality is foundational for a robust relationship with God. It signifies a heart that takes God seriously, acknowledging His sovereignty and responding with appropriate humility and devotion. It is a sign of spiritual maturity and a genuine desire to walk in God's ways. The εὐλαβής individual is thus prepared to receive divine revelation and participate in God's redemptive plan.
### Summary
The Greek word εὐλαβής (G2126), transliterated as *eulabḗs*, denotes a person who is "devout" or "pious," characterized by a profound and active reverence for God. Rooted in the idea of "taking well" or "handling carefully," it describes an individual whose piety is marked by circumspection, cautious respect, and a deep awe that shapes their conduct. Biblical occurrences in [[Luke 2:25]], [[Acts 2:5]], and [[Acts 8:2]] consistently portray εὐλαβής individuals as righteous, serious about their faith, and courageous in their devotion, even in the face of adversity. This term is closely related to εὐλάβεια (G2124, reverence) and εὐλαβέομαι (G2125, to be cautious/revere), and parallels the Old Testament concept of "the fear of the Lord" (`{{H3372}}`). Theologically, εὐλαβής signifies a vital aspect of genuine faith: a reverent awe that leads to careful obedience, spiritual sensitivity, and a life lived in profound respect for the divine. It is a quality that undergirds true discipleship and prepares the heart to encounter God.
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