ὠφέλιμος (ōphelimos)
ōphelimos
valuable
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective ōphelimos describes something as genuinely useful, serviceable, or beneficial. It goes beyond mere utility to suggest that an object, practice, or truth provides real value to those who engage with it. In the New Testament, this word appears only three times, all within the Pastoral Epistles of Paul (1 Timothy 4:8; 2 Timothy 3:16; Titus 3:8), where it qualifies specific aspects of Christian life and Scripture.
Its meaning is anchored in practical benefit. For instance, Paul notes that while physical training has some value, godliness is ōphelimos for all things (1 Timothy 4:8). Similarly, he describes Scripture as profitable for teaching and correction (2 Timothy 3:16), indicating it serves a constructive purpose in shaping character and belief. The word implies a tangible advantage or help that supports the believer’s growth.
Etymologically, ōphelimos derives from a root related to profit or gain, yet its biblical usage shifts focus from material wealth to spiritual and moral utility. It is not about self-interest but about what serves the common good and deepens faith. Translators often render it as "profitable" or "useful," capturing its sense of active benefit rather than passive worth.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word ōphelimos reminds us that our faith is not a passive belief but an active, life-giving force. In a culture that often values only what produces immediate financial gain, Scripture points to a deeper kind of utility. Physical training helps the body, but godliness offers value for every part of our existence, touching both our present struggles and our eternal hope.
When we engage with God’s Word, we are not just reading history; we are accessing something genuinely useful for our daily walk. It teaches us, corrects our steps, and trains us to live well. This practical benefit is not about earning salvation but about living in a way that reflects the goodness of God. The promise attached to this godliness extends beyond today, offering hope for the life to come.
May you find encouragement in knowing that your pursuit of holiness is never in vain. It is a valuable investment that shapes your character and strengthens your community. Let this truth anchor you as you seek to live faithfully in a world that often overlooks spiritual depth.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- profitable3×
- profit,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ὠφέλιμός1×
- ὠφέλιμος,1×
- ὠφέλιμος1×
- ὠφέλιμα1×
Key Verses
-
I Timothy 4:8
For bodily exercise has some value, but godliness has value in all things, having the promise of the life which is now and of that which is to come.
Paul contrasts temporary physical training with godliness, showing that ōphelimos here signifies a comprehensive benefit that covers both present living and future hope.
-
II Timothy 3:16
Every Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness,
The term describes Scripture as actively useful for shaping belief and behavior, highlighting its role in equipping believers for every good work.
-
Titus 3:8
This saying is faithful, and concerning these things I desire that you insist confidently, so that those who have believed God may be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men;
Paul uses the word to affirm that good works are not only morally right but also practically beneficial to others, reinforcing their value in the Christian life.