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εὐαρεστέω (euaresteō)

euaresteō

to please

G2100 · Greek · New Testament · 3 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
3 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The verb euaresteō describes a state of being well-pleasing or acceptable, often carrying the sense of rendering good service that brings satisfaction. In the New Testament, it appears only three times, with two occurrences in Hebrews and one in Ephesians. The word combines eu ("good") and arasteō ("to please"), pointing to an action that aligns perfectly with the will or taste of another.

In Hebrews 11:5-6, the text uses this term to describe Enoch’s life as "well-pleasing" to God, linking it directly to faith. This usage echoes the Septuagint’s translation of Genesis 5:24, where Enoch “walked with God.” The emphasis is not merely on moral behavior but on a relational harmony that God finds delightful. Translators often render it as "well-pleasing" or "acceptable," highlighting the positive response from the divine perspective rather than human effort alone.

The term’s rarity in Scripture underscores its significance when it does appear. It suggests that true worship and obedience are not burdensome duties but acts that resonate with God’s nature. By focusing on this word, readers can appreciate the depth of relationship implied in biblical faithfulness, where actions are not just correct but truly pleasing to the One they honor.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word εὐαρεστέω (euaresteō) carries a gentle warmth, meaning to be well-pleasing or acceptable. It appears only three times in the New Testament, linking our daily actions to God’s delight. This is not about earning favor through rigid rules, but about living in a way that resonates with His nature. When we act in faith and love, we align ourselves with what God finds good.

In Hebrews 11, Enoch’s life is described as well-pleasing to God because of his faith. This reminds us that our relationship with Him is rooted in trust, not perfection. Similarly, Hebrews 13:16 tells us that acts of kindness and sharing are sacrifices that please God. These small, everyday choices matter deeply. They show that we care about what He cares about.

This word invites you to see your life as a dialogue with God. It is not a heavy burden but a joyful response to His grace. When you seek to honor Him through faith and generosity, you are participating in something eternal. Your efforts are seen and valued by the One who created you. This perspective brings peace, knowing that even small acts of love can bring joy to His heart.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • to please [Him];1×
  • to have pleased1×
  • is well pleased1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • εὐαρεστῆσαι·1×
  • εὐαρεστηκέναι1×
  • εὐαρεστεῖται1×

Key Verses

  • Hebrews 11:5
    By faith Enoch was taken away, so that he wouldn’t see death, and he was not found, because God translated him. For he has had testimony given to him that before his translation he had been well pleasing to God.

    This verse highlights Enoch’s faith as the foundation for being well-pleasing to God, showing that relational trust precedes divine approval.

  • Hebrews 11:6
    Without faith it is impossible to be well pleasing to him, for he who comes to God must believe that he exists, and that he is a rewarder of those who seek him.

    Here the word establishes faith as an absolute necessity for pleasing God, emphasizing belief in His existence and character as a rewarder.

  • Hebrews 13:16
    But don’t forget to be doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

    This occurrence connects practical generosity—doing good and sharing—with being well-pleasing to God, framing such acts as spiritual sacrifices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does εὐαρεστέω (euaresteō) mean?

It means to be well-pleasing or acceptable to someone. In the New Testament, it specifically describes actions or attitudes that align with God’s will and bring Him delight, rather than mere compliance with rules.

How is this word different from simply 'obeying' God?

While obedience focuses on following commands, euaresteō emphasizes the relational outcome—that our actions are delightful to God. It suggests a harmony of heart and will, where we seek what pleases Him out of love and faith, not just duty.

Why does Hebrews 11:6 say it is impossible to please God without faith?

This verse teaches that genuine pleasing of God starts with trusting in His existence and His nature as a rewarder. Without this foundational trust, our actions lack the relational depth that makes them acceptable to Him.

Can everyday acts like sharing food please God?

Yes. Hebrews 13:16 explicitly states that doing good and sharing are sacrifices that make God well-pleased. This shows that ordinary acts of kindness, when done with a heart aligned to God, hold significant spiritual value.

Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)

Hebrews 3 verses
Hebrews 11:5

By faith Enoch was taken away, so that he wouldn’t see death, and he was not found, because God translated him. For he…

Hebrews 11:6

Without faith it is impossible to be well pleasing to him, for he who comes to God must believe that he exists, and…

Hebrews 13:16

But don’t forget to be doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.