from a compound of εὖ and ψυχή; to be in good spirits, i.e. feel encouraged:--be of good comfort.
Transliteration:eupsychéō
Pronunciation:yoo-psoo-kheh'-o
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb εὐψυχέω (eupsychéō, `{{G2174}}`) is a compound word derived from εὖ (eu, `{{G2117}}`), meaning "good" or "well," and ψυχή (psychē, `{{G5590}}`), meaning "soul," "life," or "spirit." Literally, it signifies "to be well-souled" or "to have a good spirit." This etymological foundation points to an internal state of well-being, specifically pertaining to one's inner disposition or emotional fortitude. The core meaning thus encapsulates the idea of being in good spirits, possessing a cheerful disposition, or, more dynamically, being encouraged and taking heart. It denotes an inner strength and resilience of the soul, contrasting with despondency or fear. While it can imply a state of being comforted, its emphasis leans more towards the active posture of being courageous or encouraged from within, or receiving encouragement that leads to such an internal state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb εὐψυχέω (eupsychéō, `{{G2174}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in Paul's Epistle to the Philippians:
* **[[Philippians 2:19]]**: "But I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, so that I also may be encouraged (εὐψυχῶ) when I learn of your circumstances."
In this singular occurrence, Paul expresses his intention to send Timothy to the Philippians. His stated motivation is deeply pastoral and personal: he desires to be "encouraged" (εὐψυχῶ) by receiving news of their spiritual and physical welfare through Timothy. The context reveals Paul's profound concern for the Philippian believers. Despite his own imprisonment and trials, his well-being is intrinsically linked to the well-being of the churches he founded. His "encouragement" (εὐψυχία, the noun form, though not used here, captures the essence) is not a selfish desire for comfort, but a spiritual solace derived from the thriving of the body of Christ. This usage highlights that encouragement can be reciprocal within the Christian community, and that the spiritual health of one member can profoundly impact another, even an apostle. Paul's hope is rooted "in the Lord Jesus," indicating that this desired encouragement is part of God's providential care for His servants and His church.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek terms share semantic overlap with εὐψυχέω (eupsychéō, `{{G2174}}`), illuminating its specific nuance:
* **εὖ (eu, `{{G2117}}`)**: The prefix itself signifies "good," "well," or "rightly," emphasizing the positive quality of the inner state.
* **ψυχή (psychē, `{{G5590}}`)**: The root word for "soul," "life," or "spirit," underscoring that εὐψυχέω pertains to the deepest part of one's being, not merely superficial cheerfulness.
* **παρακαλέω (parakaleō, `{{G3870}}`)**: Often translated as "to comfort," "to encourage," or "to exhort." While parakaleō can describe the act of giving comfort or encouragement to others, εὐψυχέω specifically describes the *state* of being encouraged or having a good spirit. One might parakaleō someone so that they eupsychéō.
* **θαρσέω (tharseō, `{{G2292}}`)** / **θαρρέω (tharrheō, `{{G2292}}`)**: Meaning "to be of good courage," "to take heart," or "to be confident." These terms are very close in meaning, focusing on courage in the face of fear or difficulty. Eupsychéō carries a similar sense of inner fortitude but perhaps emphasizes the *well-being* of the soul more broadly than simply courage against a threat.
* **εὐθυμέω (euthymeō, `{{G2115}}`)**: Meaning "to be cheerful," "to be of good courage." This term is also very closely related, often used interchangeably in secular Greek. Eupsychéō might carry a slightly deeper, more spiritual connotation due to the presence of psychē.
The distinctiveness of εὐψυχέω lies in its direct reference to the "soul" (ψυχή), suggesting a profound, internal state of spiritual and emotional health that results in courage and encouragement. It is not merely a fleeting emotion but a settled disposition of the inner person.
### Theological Significance
Despite its single occurrence, εὐψυχέω (eupsychéō, `{{G2174}}`) carries significant theological weight, particularly concerning the nature of Christian fellowship and the spiritual well-being of believers.
1. **Interdependence in the Body of Christ**: Paul's desire to be encouraged by news of the Philippians highlights the essential interdependence within the Christian community. Believers are not isolated units; their spiritual health and perseverance contribute to the encouragement and joy of others, even seasoned apostles. This mutual encouragement is a vital aspect of koinonia (fellowship).
2. **Pastoral Concern and Empathy**: The apostle's longing to be "encouraged" by their welfare demonstrates profound pastoral empathy. His own spiritual state is deeply tied to the condition of those he serves, reflecting a Christ-like selflessness that finds joy in the flourishing of others. This underscores that genuine ministry is not detached but deeply invested in the lives of the flock.
3. **Hope as a Source of Encouragement**: Paul's statement, "I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy," grounds his desire for encouragement in his faith and trust in Christ. True Christian encouragement is not based on fleeting circumstances but on the steadfast hope found in the Lord. This hope allows believers to maintain a "good spirit" even amidst personal trials and external pressures.
4. **Spiritual Fortitude for Ministry**: For Paul, being "encouraged" (εὐψυχῶ) was not a luxury but a necessary spiritual refreshment for his demanding ministry. A "good soul" or a "well spirit" is essential for enduring hardship, proclaiming the Gospel, and faithfully serving God. It speaks to the inner resilience that the Holy Spirit cultivates in believers.
### Summary
The Greek word εὐψυχέω (eupsychéō, `{{G2174}}`) is a rich term meaning "to be in good spirits," "to be encouraged," or "to have a good soul/spirit." Its etymology from εὖ ("good") and ψυχή ("soul") points to an internal, profound state of well-being and fortitude. Although it appears only once in the New Testament, in [[Philippians 2:19]], its usage is deeply insightful. Paul's desire to be encouraged by news of the Philippians underscores the vital role of mutual encouragement and spiritual interdependence within the body of Christ. It highlights the pastoral heart that finds solace and strength in the flourishing of others, grounding this hope in the Lord Jesus. Thus, εὐψυχέω speaks to the spiritual health, resilience, and interconnectedness that characterize a vibrant Christian life and effective ministry. It reminds believers that their spiritual state impacts others and that true encouragement flows from a soul anchored in Christ.
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