εὐπειθής (eupeithēs)
eupeithēs
compliant
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective eupeithēs describes a disposition that is willing and ready to obey. It combines the prefix eu, meaning "well" or "easily," with peithō, which relates to persuasion or obedience. The result is a term for someone who is compliant by nature, responding readily to authority rather than resisting it.
This word appears only once in the New Testament, in James 3:17. There, it modifies the wisdom that comes from heaven. Unlike earthly wisdom, which can be self-seeking and chaotic, divine wisdom is characterized by this gentle compliance. It suggests a heart that is open to God’s direction and receptive to truth without contention.
Its rarity in Scripture highlights its specific theological weight. By using eupeithēs, James contrasts the stubbornness of human pride with the humble availability of heavenly insight. The word points to a quiet strength found in submission, presenting obedience not as a burden but as the natural response to God’s wisdom.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
James uses this rare word to describe the wisdom that comes from heaven. It paints a picture of a heart that is not stubborn or resistant, but rather open and ready to listen. When we encounter God’s truth, our natural reaction might be to defend ourselves or argue our case. Heavenly wisdom invites us to do the opposite: to yield gently and accept direction with ease.
This quality does not mean we lack strength or conviction. Instead, it reflects a quiet confidence that trusts God knows best. It is the willingness to let go of our own rigid plans and allow divine insight to guide our steps. In moments of conflict or confusion, this gentle compliance helps us stay peaceful and merciful, rather than falling into contention.
Praying for this kind of wisdom means asking God to soften any hardness in our hearts. It is an invitation to approach life’s challenges with a spirit that seeks to understand before it seeks to be understood. This openness allows God’s peace to take root, leading to good fruits that bless those around us.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- reasonable,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- εὐπειθής,1×
Key Verses
-
James 3:17
But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceful, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
This is the only New Testament occurrence of the word, where it defines a key characteristic of heavenly wisdom as being ready to yield to God's direction rather than resisting it.