a strengthened form of ἔθος; usage, i.e. (plural) moral habits:--manners.
Transliteration:ēthos
Pronunciation:ay'-thos
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma ἦθος (ēthos, `{{G2239}}`) is defined as a "strengthened form of ἔθος" (ethos, `{{G1485}}`), which means custom, habit, or usage. While ἔθος broadly refers to established practices, ἦθος specifically denotes "usage" and, particularly in its plural form (ἤθη), refers to "moral habits" or "manners." It encapsulates the settled character, disposition, and ethical framework that governs an individual's or community's conduct. The term points to the internal moral constitution and the consistent outward expression of that constitution, emphasizing the ethical dimension of one's way of life.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἦθος (ēthos, `{{G2239}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in [[1 Corinthians 15:33]]. In this verse, Paul writes: "Do not be deceived: 'Bad company ruins good morals (ἦθος).'" This statement is a direct quotation of a well-known proverb, likely from the Greek dramatist Menander, which Paul employs to warn the Corinthian believers. The context of [[1 Corinthians 15]] is Paul's robust defense of the resurrection of the dead. Some in the Corinthian church were denying or questioning this fundamental doctrine. Paul argues that such false teaching, and association with those who propagate it, constitutes "bad company" (ὁμιλίαι κακαί) that can corrupt the "good morals" (τὰ χρηστὰ ἤθη) of the believers. The use of the plural *ἤθη* here highlights the collective body of ethical habits and the overall character that defines a Christian life. The implication is clear: a denial of core Christian truth (like the resurrection) leads to a distorted worldview that undermines ethical living, and association with such distortion can erode the moral integrity of the faithful.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **ἔθος (ethos, `{{G1485}}`):** As the root word, ἔθος refers to custom, habit, or tradition (e.g., [[Luke 2:42]], [[John 19:40]], [[Acts 6:14]]). While closely related, ἦθος emphasizes the moral dimension of these habits more explicitly.
* **ἀναστροφή (anastrophē, `{{G394}}`):** Meaning conduct or way of life, anastrophē describes the outward manifestation of one's behavior (e.g., [[Ephesians 4:22]], [[1 Peter 1:15]]). ἦθος speaks to the underlying moral character that shapes this conduct.
* **ἀρετή (aretē, `{{G703}}`):** Translated as virtue or moral excellence, aretē refers to a specific quality of moral goodness (e.g., [[Philippians 4:8]], [[2 Peter 1:3]]). ἦθος describes the established habits and disposition that embody or lead to such virtues.
* **χαρακτήρ (charaktēr, `{{G5481}}`):** While often referring to an exact likeness or impression (e.g., [[Hebrews 1:3]]), charaktēr can also denote distinguishing marks of character. ἦθος is more about the internal moral disposition and its consistent expression.
* **δικαιοσύνη (dikaiosynē, `{{G1343}}`):** Meaning righteousness, dikaiosynē refers to conformity to God's standard. ἦθος describes the moral habits that align with or demonstrate righteousness.
### Theological Significance
The singular yet profound appearance of ἦθος (ēthos) in the New Testament underscores a crucial theological principle: the inseparable link between sound doctrine and sound living. Paul's warning in [[1 Corinthians 15:33]] highlights the vulnerability of Christian character to corrupting influences, particularly false teaching and ungodly associations. For Paul, the denial of the resurrection was not merely an intellectual error but had direct implications for the moral conduct of believers. If there is no resurrection, the incentive for godly living is diminished, potentially leading to a hedonistic "eat and drink, for tomorrow we die" mentality ([[1 Corinthians 15:32]]).
This concept aligns with the broader biblical emphasis on sanctification and the call to live a life worthy of the gospel. Christian ἦθος is not innate but is cultivated through adherence to truth, the transformative work of the Holy Spirit, and careful discernment of one's company. The passage serves as a timeless admonition for believers to guard their moral integrity, recognizing that their spiritual environment profoundly shapes their ethical habits and character. It reinforces the necessity of discerning fellowship and upholding the moral standards that flow from genuine faith in Christ.
### Summary
The Greek word ἦθος (ēthos, `{{G2239}}`) denotes moral habits, disposition, and established character. As a strengthened form of ἔθος (custom), it carries a distinct ethical weight, emphasizing the internal moral constitution that shapes one's conduct. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[1 Corinthians 15:33]], "Bad company ruins good morals," serves as a potent warning from Paul. This verse underscores the critical importance of maintaining sound doctrine and discerning associations to preserve Christian ἦθος. It highlights that genuine faith is not merely intellectual assent but profoundly impacts one's ethical life, calling believers to cultivate and guard a character consistent with the truth of the gospel.
TRV