from εὖ and πείθω; good for persuasion, i.e. (intransitively) complaint:--easy to be intreated.
Transliteration:eupeithḗs
Pronunciation:yoo-pi-thace'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective εὐπειθής (eupeithḗs - `{{G2138}}`) is a compound word derived from εὖ (eu - `{{G2095}}`), meaning "well" or "good," and πείθω (peithō - `{{G3982}}`), which means "to persuade," "to be persuaded," or "to obey." Thus, the literal meaning of εὐπειθής is "well-persuaded," "easy to persuade," or "ready to obey." It describes a disposition that is receptive, open to reason, and willing to yield to good counsel or instruction. This term conveys a sense of reasonableness, flexibility, and a lack of stubbornness or obstinacy. It implies a virtuous readiness to be convinced by truth and to comply with what is right and beneficial, especially in matters that promote peace and harmony.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term εὐπειθής appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the Epistle of James: [[James 3:17]]. In this pivotal verse, James contrasts two types of wisdom: the "earthly, sensual, demonic" wisdom that leads to disorder and every evil practice (vv. 14-16), and "the wisdom from above" (v. 17). The wisdom from above is described by a series of seven positive attributes, with εὐπειθής being one of them.
The full description reads: "But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, **easy to be intreated**, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy." Here, "easy to be intreated" (εὐπειθής) highlights a crucial characteristic of divine wisdom. It is not rigid, unyielding, or dogmatic in a negative sense, but rather open to persuasion, willing to listen, and responsive to appeals, particularly those that align with peace and righteousness. This quality is essential for resolving disputes, fostering reconciliation, and maintaining unity within the community. It stands in direct opposition to the contentious and self-serving nature of earthly wisdom, which is characterized by bitter envy and selfish ambition (v. 14). The εὐπειθής quality of divine wisdom ensures that it is approachable and adaptable for the purpose of good, rather than being stubbornly entrenched in its own perspective.
### Related Words & Concepts
The core of εὐπειθής lies in its root πείθω (`{{G3982}}`), which is a broad term encompassing persuasion, obedience, and trust. The prefix εὖ (`{{G2095}}`) elevates the quality, indicating a *good* or *right* kind of persuasion and compliance.
Other virtues listed alongside εὐπειθής in [[James 3:17]] provide a fuller picture of "the wisdom from above" and offer semantic parallels:
* ἁγνή (hagnē - pure, `{{G53}}`): Emphasizes moral and spiritual cleanliness.
* εἰρηνική (eirēnikē - peaceable, `{{G1516}}`): Highlights its role in promoting peace.
* ἐπιεικής (epieikēs - gentle, `{{G1933}}`): Often translated as "reasonable," "fair," or "forbearing," which closely aligns with "easy to be intreated" in its implication of a yielding, non-abrasive disposition.
* μεστὴ ἐλέους καὶ καρπῶν ἀγαθῶν (mestē eleous kai karpōn agathōn - full of mercy and good fruits): Points to its practical, compassionate outcomes.
* ἀδιάκριτος (adiakritos - without partiality, `{{G96}}`): Denotes impartiality and decisiveness.
* ἀνυπόκριτος (anypokritos - without hypocrisy, `{{G505}}`): Signifies sincerity and authenticity.
Antonyms for εὐπειθής would include terms describing stubbornness, obstinacy, resistance, or an unyielding spirit, such as σκληροτράχηλος (sklērotrachēlos - stiff-necked, `{{G4644}}`), which is used in the Old Testament and Acts to describe rebellious Israel.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of εὐπειθής in [[James 3:17]] bestows upon it profound theological significance. It reveals a crucial aspect of God's own character and the nature of the wisdom He bestows upon His people. Divine wisdom is not rigid or unapproachable; instead, it is characterized by a benevolent openness and a readiness to respond to truth and righteous appeals. This quality reflects God's own disposition: while immutable in His perfect nature and truth, He is also merciful, approachable, and responsive to the prayers, repentance, and genuine needs of His children.
For believers, cultivating εὐπειθής means embodying a spirit of humility and teachability. It implies a willingness to be corrected, to learn, and to adjust one's views or actions when presented with God's Word, the conviction of the Holy Spirit, or the wise counsel of others. This virtue is vital for fostering peace and unity within the Christian community, preventing division and promoting reconciliation. It is not about being gullible or easily swayed by every opinion, but about being open to righteous persuasion that leads to peace, mercy, and good fruits. It underscores that true spiritual strength is often found in humble responsiveness rather than unyielding self-assertion.
### Summary
εὐπειθής (eupeithḗs - `{{G2138}}`) is a Greek adjective meaning "easy to be intreated," "easily persuaded," or "compliant." Derived from εὖ (well, good) and πείθω (to persuade, obey), it describes a positive disposition of receptiveness and a virtuous willingness to yield to good counsel. Its sole appearance in the New Testament is in [[James 3:17]], where it is listed as a defining characteristic of "the wisdom from above." This quality contrasts sharply with the contentious nature of earthly wisdom, highlighting that divine wisdom is pure, peaceable, gentle, and open to righteous persuasion. Theologically, εὐπειθής signifies a divine attribute of benevolent reasonableness and an essential virtue for believers, promoting humility, harmony, and a responsive spirit to God's truth and the needs of others. It teaches that true wisdom is not rigid but adaptable and open to righteous influence for the sake of peace and good works.
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