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ἀγαθοποιΐα

agathopoiḯa

G16 noun

SILEX Entry

Root ἀγαθοποι- to do good, to act beneficently, to perform good deeds

Definition

Doing what is good; the practice or activity of doing good actions or beneficent deeds, especially acts that benefit others or fulfill ethical obligations. The word encompasses the concrete practice of good conduct, especially in a moral or social sense, rather than abstract virtue. In specific contexts, it refers to individual or communal engagement in activities considered beneficial or just.

Semantic Range

doing good, well-doing, the practice of beneficence, engaging in good works, active pursuit of virtuous deeds, beneficent action

Root / Etymology

Composed of ἀγαθο- ('good') and ποιΐα ('making, doing'), derived from the adjective ἀγαθοποιός ('doer of good'); ultimately from ἀγαθός ('good') and ποιέω ('to do, to make').

Historical & Contextual Notes

A rare noun in Greek literature, ἀγαθοποιΐα is found primarily in Hellenistic and early Christian texts. It does not appear in classical Greek and is constructed analogically to other noun formations indicating habitual action or practice. In the New Testament (e.g., 1 Peter 4:19), it refers to active engagement in good actions in accordance with divine or ethical standards, emphasizing the practice of beneficial deeds as a lifestyle or recognized pattern. The term is distinct from general 'virtue' (ἀρετή), focusing on demonstrable actions rather than inward moral quality. Standard English renderings like 'well-doing' or 'doing good' capture the general sense, but may miss the implied habitual or deliberate engagement in beneficial acts. Related terms include ἀγαθοποιέω ('to do good') and ἀγαθοποιός ('one who does good'). Use in later patristic literature continues in the sense of charitable activity or practical kindness.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from ἀγαθοποιός; well-doing, i.e. virtue:--well-doing.

Root Family

ἀγαθοποιΐα (agathopoiia) — doing good, beneficent action, well-doing, practice of good deeds

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G16-01 ἀγαθοποιΐᾳ agathopoiia N DAT F SG doing good in doing good doing good 1

Occurrences in Scripture

1 occurrence

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G16-01 1 Peter 4:19 ἀγαθοποιΐᾳ agathopoiia N DAT F SG doing good in doing good doing good
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