### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sōphronéō**, represented by `{{G4993}}`, means to be of a sound mind. It appears **7 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. The term describes a state of being sane, moderate, and in one's right mind. It encompasses both literal mental soundness and a figurative sobriety of judgment and character.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4993}}` is applied in both literal and figurative contexts. After Jesus cast out a legion of demons, the man was seen "clothed, and in his right mind" ([[Mark 5:15]], [[Luke 8:35]]), causing those who witnessed it to be afraid `{{G5399}}`. This demonstrates a literal restoration from insanity to a sound mental state. Paul uses the word figuratively, instructing believers not to think too highly of themselves, but "to think soberly" according to the measure of faith `{{G4102}}` God has given [[Romans 12:3]]. Similarly, young men are exhorted `{{G3870}}` to be "sober minded" [[Titus 2:6]], and believers are told to be sober `{{G4993}}` and watch `{{G3525}}` unto prayer `{{G4335}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of having a sound mind:
* `{{G1839}}` **exístēmi** (to put (stand) out of wits, i.e. astound, or (reflexively) become astounded, insane): This word serves as a direct contrast. In [[2 Corinthians 5:13]], Paul sets being "beside ourselves" `{{G1839}}` for God against being "sober" `{{G4993}}` for the sake of the church.
* `{{G5426}}` **phronéō** (to exercise the mind, i.e. entertain or have a sentiment or opinion): This term for general thinking is refined by `{{G4993}}`. In [[Romans 12:3]], believers are told not to think `{{G5426}}` too highly of themselves, but to instead think soberly `{{G4993}}`.
* `{{G3525}}` **nḗphō** (to abstain from wine (keep sober), i.e. (figuratively) be discreet): This term is used alongside `{{G4993}}` to emphasize spiritual alertness. In [[1 Peter 4:7]], believers are instructed to be sober `{{G4993}}` and to watch `{{G3525}}`.
* `{{G2439}}` **himatízō** (to dress): The man healed by Jesus was found not only in his right mind `{{G4993}}` but also clothed `{{G2439}}`, signifying a complete restoration to order and decency ([[Mark 5:15]], [[Luke 8:35]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{G4993}}` is evident in its connection to Christian character and readiness.
* **Divine Restoration:** The healing of the demon-possessed man shows that a sound mind is a state of being restored by Christ's power. He was found clothed `{{G2439}}` and "in his right mind" [[Luke 8:35]], illustrating a return from chaos to divine order.
* **Humble Self-Assessment:** Having a sober mind is essential for humility. In [[Romans 12:3]], it is linked to the grace `{{G5485}}` given by God, enabling a person to evaluate themselves based on the faith `{{G4102}}` they have been dealt, not on pride.
* **Spiritual Vigilance:** A sound mind is a prerequisite for effective spiritual life. Peter commands believers to be sober `{{G4993}}` because the end of all things `{{G3956}}` is near, enabling them to be watchful in prayer `{{G4335}}` [[1 Peter 4:7]].
* **A Deliberate Virtue:** In [[Titus 2:6]], being sober-minded is presented as a specific exhortation `{{G3870}}` for young men, indicating it is a quality to be actively cultivated as part of a disciplined Christian life.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4993}}` conveys a concept that is foundational to a stable Christian walk. It moves beyond mere sanity to describe a mind that is disciplined, moderate, and correctly oriented. Whether describing the miraculous restoration of a man's wits [[Mark 5:15]] or the essential virtue of a believer's humble self-perception [[Romans 12:3]], **sōphronéō** points to a mind that is sound, steady, and subject to the will of God.
TRV