ὀλιγόψυχος (oligopsuchos)
oligopsuchos
fainthearted
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective oligopsuchos describes a state of being fainthearted or possessing small courage. Its meaning is transparent in its construction: it combines oligos, meaning "little" or "few," with psuche, referring to the soul or life force. This etymology paints a picture of someone whose inner vitality has diminished, leaving them feeling weak or discouraged rather than simply afraid.
In the New Testament, this word appears only once, in Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians 5:14). Here, it characterizes those who are spiritually weary or timid, needing gentle encouragement rather than strict rebuke. The term captures a specific emotional and spiritual exhaustion, distinguishing a lack of courage from a lack of faith.
This usage highlights the pastoral need for different approaches to different struggles. While some believers require firmness, others in this fainthearted state need support to regain their strength. The word serves as a reminder that discouragement is a recognized human condition within the early Christian community, addressed with care and patience.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When life feels heavy and your spirit grows weary, the word oligopsuchos offers a gentle reminder that you are not alone. It describes a state of having a 'small soul' or diminished courage, where discouragement weighs more heavily than fear. This specific kind of exhaustion is recognized in Scripture, showing that feeling overwhelmed is a human condition rather than a spiritual failure.
In 1 Thessalonians 5:14, Paul instructs believers to encourage those who are fainthearted. This command highlights the importance of community support during difficult seasons. Instead of harsh rebuke or pressure to 'just be strong,' the Christian response is one of patient encouragement and presence. It invites us to extend grace to ourselves and others when strength feels scarce.
May you find comfort in knowing that your current struggles are seen and valued. Let this truth bring peace as you navigate moments of weakness, trusting that support is available and that courage can be restored through the care of others and the faithfulness of God.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- fainthearted,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ὀλιγοψύχους,1×