NAS Word Usage – Total: 2

1. to confer benefits on, to bless

The Origins of the Word Eneulogeo

The Greek word eneulogeo is a verb derived from the prefix eu-, meaning “good,” and logeo, which comes from logos, meaning “word” or “speech.” Therefore, eneulogeo essentially means “to speak well of” or “to bless.” This etymology indicates that the act of blessing in Greek culture and scripture involves positive speech or declarations. Such linguistic roots give us an initial understanding that blessing is closely tied to words and expressions.

Meanings of Eneulogeo

Eneulogeo is translated in several ways depending on the context within the Bible:

• To Bless: This is the most common translation. It signifies invoking divine favor upon someone or something.
• To Praise: In some instances, eneulogeo connotes speaking highly or praising God or another individual.
• To Speak Well Of: This meaning aligns with the root words, carrying the sense of giving a favorable testimony or commendation.

The context in biblical passages typically determines how eneulogeo is best translated and understood.

Eneulogeo in the Old Testament

While the Old Testament was primarily written in Hebrew, the Greek translation known as the Septuagint (LXX) often uses eneulogeo for the Hebrew word barak, which also means “to bless.”

Example: The Blessing of Abraham

In Genesis 12:2-3, God promises Abraham, “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you…” Here, the Septuagint uses eneulogeo multiple times to emphasize the blessings God bestows upon Abraham and his descendants.

Example: The Priestly Blessing

Numbers 6:24-26 is another significant passage where eneulogeo is used in the Septuagint: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” This passage highlights that blessings are a form of divine speech that conveys God’s favor and protection.

Eneulogeo in the New Testament

Eneulogeo appears numerous times in the New Testament, enriching narratives and teachings by demonstrating various aspects of blessing.

Example: The Beatitudes

In Matthew 5:1-12, Jesus teaches the Beatitudes, starting each phrase with “Blessed are…” Though the Greek word used here is makarios (meaning “blessed” or “happy”), the concept of blessing is integral.

Example: Feeding the Five Thousand

Mark 6:41 states, “Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves.” Here, “gave thanks” is translated from eulogeo, a form of eneulogeo. This act of blessing the food signifies both gratitude and the divine multiplication that follows.

Example: Paul’s Letters

In 2 Corinthians 1:3, Paul begins his letter with a blessing: “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort.” The word translated as “praise” is eulogetos, related to eneulogeo. Thus, Paul starts his letters by speaking well of and glorifying God, setting a tone of reverence and gratitude.

Theological Implications of Eneulogeo

Understanding eneulogeo helps us grasp the theological significance of blessings in the Bible. Biblical blessings are not just goodwill gestures but powerful acts that invoke God’s presence and favor.

Blessing as Communication

Given its root meaning, eneulogeo shows that blessings involve communication—specifically, speaking good into someone’s life. When Jesus blesses the bread, He not only thanks God but transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary through divine intervention.

Participation in Divine Favor

When believers bless one another, they participate in and extend God’s blessings. This concept is evident in the numerous Pauline epistles where blessings are frequently spoken upon the readers.

Practical Applications

Understanding eneulogeo in its biblical context can transform how we perceive blessings in our daily lives.

In Prayer

When praying, using eneulogeo can remind us that we are invoking divine favor through our words. Prayer itself becomes a form of blessing as we seek God’s intervention and grace.

In Relationships

Speaking well of others and offering blessings can transform relationships. By understanding eneulogeo, we recognize the power our words hold to invoke blessings and positivity, fostering deeper connections.

In Worship

Acknowledging eneulogeo enhances our worship, reminding us that praising God is itself a blessing that invites His presence and favor into our lives.

Conclusion

So, what does eneulogeo mean in Greek in the context of the Bible? It means to bless, to speak well of, to praise. Rooted in divine favor and positive speech, eneulogeo deepens our understanding of how blessings function within biblical texts and our own spiritual journeys. By recognizing the power of words and the act of blessing, we gain insight into the profound connection between heaven and earth, mediated through divine speech.

Understanding the depth of eneulogeo thus invites us to engage more fully in the practice of blessing, both receiving and giving it, thereby enriching our spiritual lives and the world around us.