εὐεργέτης (euergetēs)
euergetēs
benefactor
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun euergetēs denotes a benefactor, specifically one who performs good deeds for others. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Luke 22:25, where Jesus contrasts his disciples’ calling with the practices of Gentile rulers. These leaders are described as exercising authority and styling themselves as benefactors, highlighting a cultural expectation that power should be used to confer favor or protection.
Its etymology combines eu ("good") and ergon ("work"), literally meaning "well-worker." Thayer’s Lexicon notes that in the ancient world, this was often an honorific title for princes or officials who had served their country. The word carried significant social weight, implying a reciprocal relationship where the recipient owed gratitude and loyalty to the patron.
Jesus uses this term to subvert the concept of leadership. By pointing out that Gentile kings are called benefactors, He sets up a stark contrast with His own teaching: true greatness comes not from being served or honored as a patron, but from serving others. The word thus serves as a foil for Christian humility.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word euergetēs describes someone who performs good deeds for others, often carrying an expectation of gratitude or loyalty in return. In the first century, this term was frequently used as an honorific title for rulers and officials who exercised power by conferring favors on their subjects. It reflects a cultural understanding that leadership is primarily about receiving service and being honored.
Jesus uses this specific word in Luke 22:25 to draw a sharp contrast between worldly authority and the life of his followers. He points out that while Gentile kings are called benefactors because they lord it over others, his disciples are invited into a different kind of greatness. True leadership among those who follow him is not measured by how many people serve you, but by your willingness to serve them.
This teaching invites us to look at our own relationships with fresh eyes. It challenges the natural human desire for status and recognition, offering instead the quiet dignity of giving without expecting a return. When we choose to serve rather than be served, we reflect the heart of Christ, finding fulfillment in generosity rather than in power.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- benefactors1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- εὐεργέται1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 22:25
He said to them, “The kings of the nations lord it over them, and those who have authority over them are called ‘benefactors.’
Jesus explicitly contrasts the title 'benefactors' used by Gentile rulers with his call for disciples to serve one another, redefining greatness through humility.