### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ḗpios**, represented by `{{G2261}}`, is defined as properly affable, meaning mild or kind, and is translated as **gentle**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. This term captures a specific quality of mildness and kindness required in ministry and personal conduct.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The scriptural use of `{{G2261}}` provides two clear contexts for its meaning. In [[2 Timothy 2:24]], a "servant of the Lord" is instructed that they must not "strive" but instead "be **gentle** unto all men." This presents gentleness as a required characteristic that stands in direct opposition to a quarrelsome or combative nature. The second instance, in [[1 Thessalonians 2:7]], uses a powerful simile, where the authors describe their conduct by stating, "we were **gentle** among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children." This connects the quality to a tender, nurturing, and caring disposition.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and application of `{{G2261}}`:
* `{{G3164}}` **máchomai** (to war, i.e. (figuratively) to quarrel, dispute): This term is set up as the direct opposite of being gentle. A servant of the Lord must not **strive** but is instead called to be gentle [[2 Timothy 2:24]].
* `{{G5162}}` **trophós** (a nourisher, i.e. nurse): This word provides the central illustration for gentleness in [[1 Thessalonians 2:7]], comparing the apostolic behavior to the tender care of a **nurse** with her children.
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (a slave...servant): This identifies the person who is commanded to be gentle. The instruction to not strive but be gentle is given specifically to the **servant** of the Lord [[2 Timothy 2:24]].
* `{{G420}}` **anexíkakos** (enduring of ill, i.e. forbearing): This quality is listed alongside gentleness in [[2 Timothy 2:24]], showing that being gentle is part of a larger set of characteristics that includes being **patient**.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2261}}` is focused on the character of a believer in service to God.
* **A Requirement for Servants:** Gentleness is not merely a suggestion but a requirement for a "servant of the Lord" `{{G1401}}`. It is presented as a non-negotiable trait, essential for effective ministry [[2 Timothy 2:24]].
* **The Nature of Spiritual Care:** The comparison to a "nurse" `{{G5162}}` cherishing her children frames gentleness as a key component of spiritual oversight and pastoral care. It implies a protective, selfless, and tender attitude toward others [[1 Thessalonians 2:7]].
* **A Contrast to Conflict:** By being placed in opposition to "strive" `{{G3164}}`, ḗpios emphasizes a demeanor of peace and forbearance. It is a quality that defuses conflict rather than creates it, enabling a servant to be "apt to teach" [[2 Timothy 2:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2261}}` is a concise but significant term that defines a crucial aspect of Christian conduct. Though its usage is rare, it powerfully conveys the concept of a mild and kind disposition through its two key scriptural illustrations: the forbearing servant who must not quarrel, and the nurturing nurse who tenderly cares for her children. **Ēpios** is thus established as a fundamental characteristic for those who serve the Lord and care for His people.
TRV