εὐφημία (euphēmia)
euphēmia
good report
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun euphēmia refers to a good report or public praise, standing in direct contrast to dysphēmia, which denotes slander or ill repute. In the New Testament, this word appears only once, located in 2 Corinthians 6:8 within Paul’s list of paradoxes describing his ministry. Here, he presents himself as having both a good reputation and being treated as an impostor simultaneously.
Etymologically, the term derives from euphēmos, meaning "speaking well" or using auspicious words. This root highlights that the concept is not merely about internal feelings but about external perception and vocal acknowledgment by others. The sources note its usage in the Septuagint for psalms of praise, reinforcing its connection to spoken commendation.
Paul’s use of this single instance underscores the complexity of Christian witness. It suggests that a faithful life can generate genuine respect and positive testimony even while facing severe misunderstanding or rejection. The word captures the tension between how the world judges and the reality of God’s approval, showing that honor and disgrace often coexist in the same season.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Paul’s letter to the Corinthians reveals a startling reality of Christian service: you can be widely praised and deeply misunderstood at the same time. The word for good report here does not guarantee safety or success in human eyes. Instead, it sits side-by-side with dishonor and evil reporting as part of the ministry experience. This means your value is not tied to public approval.
When you face criticism despite living faithfully, remember that this tension is biblical. God’s approval stands firm even when the world speaks against you. The hope lies in knowing that true honor comes from Him, not from the shifting opinions of others. You are seen and known by the One who matters most.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- good report,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- εὐφημίας,1×
Key Verses
-
II Corinthians 6:8
by glory and dishonor, by evil report and good report, as deceivers and yet true,
Paul places good report alongside evil reporting to show that public praise and slander can coexist in the life of a faithful servant.