ἦθος (ēthos)
ēthos
moral
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun ēthos refers to a habitual way of living or a settled character. In Scripture, it describes the moral customs that define a community’s identity. The word appears only once in the New Testament, in Paul’s warning about bad company corrupting good habits (1 Corinthians 15:33). Here, it points to the pervasive influence of social environment on personal virtue.
Its root connects to habit and custom, suggesting that character is formed through repeated practice rather than isolated decisions. The sources note its use in Greek literature for a dwelling place or haunt, emphasizing how location and routine shape behavior. Translators often render it as "morals" or "customs," capturing the idea that ethics are embedded in daily life. This usage highlights the biblical view that spiritual health requires careful attention to one’s surroundings and associations.
Understanding ēthos reveals how ancient writers viewed morality as communal and environmental. Paul’s single use underscores the danger of allowing harmful patterns to define a believer’s character. The word reminds readers that integrity is not just an internal state but a lifestyle shaped by consistent choices and relationships.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word ἦθος describes the moral habits that shape who we are. It reminds us that character is not formed in isolation but through daily routines and the people we keep company with. This truth offers hope: if good morals can be eroded, they can also be built up through intentional choices.
Paul warns in 1 Corinthians 15:33 that evil companionships corrupt good morals. This is not a threat but a gentle invitation to examine your surroundings. Who influences your daily life? What habits are you practicing? Small, consistent steps toward virtue can transform your character over time.
You are never stuck with the habits of yesterday. Each day brings a new opportunity to choose relationships and practices that align with God’s wisdom. Trust in His grace to help you grow, one step at a time.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- morals1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἤθη1×
Key Verses
-
I Corinthians 15:33
Don’t be deceived! “Evil companionships corrupt good morals.”
This verse explicitly links social environment ('evil companionships') with the corruption of moral character ('good morals'), showing how external influences shape internal virtue.