NAS Word Usage – Total: 1

1. to make peace, establish harmony

The Etymology of Eirenopoieo

“Eirenopoieo” (pronounced ay-ray-nop-oy-eh’-o) is derived from the Greek word “eirene,” which translates to “peace,” and the verb “poieo,” meaning “to make” or “to do.” Put together, “Eirenopoieo” essentially means “to make peace” or “to be a peacemaker.” Understanding the etymology gives us foundational knowledge to appreciate its context and applications.

Biblical References to Eirenopoieo

“Eirenopoieo” does not appear frequently in the New Testament, but its occurrences are crucial for understanding the broader Biblical theme of peace.

• Matthew 5:9: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the children of God.” Here, although the term “eirene” is used in the original Greek, the concept clearly aligns with “eirenopoieo.” The verse underscores the special place peacemakers hold in God’s kingdom.
• Colossians 1:20: “And through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.” In this passage, the work of Christ is described as making peace (eirenopoieo) through His sacrifice, showing how central peacemaking is in Christian salvation history.

The Theological Significance of Eirenopoieo

In Christian theology, “Eirenopoieo” holds profound significance. It is not just about the absence of conflict but also encompasses the idea of wholeness, harmony, and reconciliation. Here are some aspects of its theological importance:

• Bringing Wholeness: Peace from a Biblical perspective goes beyond just resolving conflicts; it involves bringing completeness and well-being. Eirenopoieo thus signifies the effort to restore wholeness in relationships and communities.
• Reconciliation: In Colossians 1:20, “Eirenopoieo” is directly linked to reconciliation through Jesus Christ. This underscores the idea that true peace involves reconciling disrupted relationships, not just suppressing conflict.
• Divine Nature: The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:9) highlight peacemakers as reflecting God’s nature, implying that Eirenopoieo is an expression of living in alignment with divine qualities. Peacemaking is seen as an act that mirrors God’s initiative in restoring peace and harmony in the world.

Practical Applications of Eirenopoieo

Understanding what Eirenopoieo means in Greek in the context of the Bible is enlightening, but how can this knowledge be applied in daily life? Here are some practical ways:

• Personal Relationships: Incorporating Eirenopoieo in our lives means striving to resolve conflicts and promote harmony in our relationships. Whether it’s in families, friendships, or workplaces, being a peacemaker involves active listening, empathy, and reconciliation.
• Community Building: In a broader sense, Eirenopoieo can inspire community initiatives focused on peace-building and resolving social conflicts. Churches and community groups can foster peace through dialogues, service projects, and by promoting inclusivity and understanding.
• Global Perspective: On a global scale, the concept urges believers to support and participate in efforts that promote peace and reconciliation among nations and peoples. This could be through supporting charitable organizations, engaging in diplomacy, or through personal advocacy.

Eirenopoieo and Modern Christianity

In modern Christianity, the call to be peacemakers resonates strongly. Various Christian organizations emphasize the importance of peace and reconciliation, drawing from Biblical teachings. Here’s how the Christian community continues to embody Eirenopoieo:

• Peace Education: Many churches and Christian institutions incorporate peace education into their programs, teaching the principles of Eirenopoieo to children, youths, and adults. This helps instill the values of peacemaking from a young age.
• Reconciliation Ministries: Several ministries are dedicated to reconciliation efforts, especially in areas of conflict. These ministries work to heal divides between different ethnic, racial, and social groups, reflecting the Biblical call to make peace.
• Social Justice and Advocacy: Advocacy for social justice is another form of Eirenopoieo. By standing against injustice and working for the fair treatment of all individuals, Christians live out the call to make peace in society.

Challenges in Living Out Eirenopoieo

Living out the principle of Eirenopoieo is not without challenges. Here are some common obstacles and reflections on how to overcome them:

• Misunderstanding Peace: Often, peace is misunderstood as merely the absence of conflict or confrontation. True Eirenopoieo involves proactive efforts to create harmony and understanding, which can be more challenging but ultimately more rewarding.
• Human Nature: Our human nature sometimes inclines us toward conflict, pride, and stubbornness. Cultivating the virtues necessary for peacemaking, such as humility and patience, requires ongoing effort and spiritual growth.
• Complex Conflicts: Some conflicts, especially those involving deep-seated issues, may seem insurmountable. In such cases, peacemaking involves persistent effort, prayer, and sometimes, seeking external help from mediators or counselors.

Conclusion

The Greek word “Eirenopoieo” offers a profound insight into the Biblical understanding of peace. It goes beyond simple conflict resolution to encompass wholeness, harmony, and divine reconciliation. By exploring what Eirenopoieo means in Greek in the context of the Bible, we uncover a rich tapestry of theological and practical teachings that challenge us to live as true peacemakers. Whether in personal relationships, community involvement, or global advocacy, the call to Eirenopoieo invites us to be active agents of God’s peace in the world.

In embodying the principles of Eirenopoieo, we not only follow Biblical teachings but also contribute to creating a world that reflects the harmony and wholeness intended by our Creator. Let us strive to be peacemakers, fostering reconciliation and harmony, and living out the profound and transformative message encapsulated in this powerful Greek term.