καλῶς (kalōs)
kalōs
well
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 37 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adverb kalōs means to do something well, rightly, or excellently. Derived from the adjective kalos, it carries a sense of moral fitness and appropriateness rather than mere physical beauty. In the New Testament, it describes actions that are commendable, honest, or spiritually sound, reflecting a life aligned with God’s standards.
This word appears in diverse contexts, from Jesus’ teaching on doing good to others (Matthew 12:12) to Paul’s encouragement for believers to support those who serve them (Philippians 4:14). It also functions as an exclamation of approval, such as when a scribe agrees with Jesus in Mark 12:32. The sources note its use in early Christian letters as a polite request, equivalent to “please,” showing how the term bridged moral instruction and everyday courtesy.
A notable feature is its occasional ironic use, where kalōs highlights the gap between appearance and reality, as in Mark 7:9 when Jesus critiques empty traditions. Translators often render it simply as “well” or “good,” but the Greek implies a deeper quality of integrity. This adverb thus captures not just the outcome of an action, but its inherent rightness.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word kalōs points to actions that are not just outwardly correct, but deeply right and fitting. It moves beyond simple compliance with rules to describe a life that aligns with God’s character. When we do good, pray, or speak truth, we are called to do it well—meaning with integrity and sincerity. This quality reflects the heart of God, who values the motive behind our deeds as much as the deeds themselves.
In daily life, this means our kindness, generosity, and faith should carry weight and authenticity. It is not enough to appear righteous; we must be genuinely aligned with His standards. Whether in small acts of service or major decisions, doing well honors God and strengthens our witness to others.
May your heart desire to do what is truly good, seeking His approval above all else. Let your life reflect the beauty of His righteousness in every area.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 37 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- well20×
- Rightly3×
- rightly,2×
- rightly2×
- good2×
- Well2×
- well;1×
- honorably,1×
- Rightly so;1×
- Right,1×
- Neatly1×
- Correctly1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- καλῶς31×
- καλῶς,4×
- καλῶς·2×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 12:12
Of how much more value then is a man than a sheep! Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath day.”
Jesus uses this term to show that doing good on the Sabbath is not just permissible but inherently right, highlighting God's priority for mercy over ritual.
-
Mark 7:37
They were astonished beyond measure, saying, “He has done all things well. He makes even the deaf hear and the mute speak!”
The crowd’s exclamation that Jesus 'has done all things well' serves as a powerful testimony to His perfect alignment with the Father’s will in healing and restoration.
-
Mark 12:32
The scribe said to him, “Truly, teacher, you have said well that he is one, and there is none other but he;
The scribe’s agreement that Jesus spoke 'well' acknowledges the truth of monotheism, showing how this word can express sincere recognition of divine reality.
-
I Corinthians 7:38
So then both he who gives his own virgin in marriage does well, and he who doesn’t give her in marriage does better.
Paul uses this adverb to affirm that marriage is a good and right choice, while also noting that singleness can be even better for undivided devotion to the Lord.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does kalōs mean in the New Testament?
How is kalōs different from simply doing something good?
Where does this word appear most significantly?
Every Occurrence (37 verses across 15 books)
Matthew 3 verses
But I tell you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who…
Matthew 12:12Of how much more value then is a man than a sheep! Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath day.”
Matthew 15:7You hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy of you, saying,