γνησίως
gnēsíōs
G1104 adverb
SILEX Entry
Definition
In a manner truly or properly pertaining to birth, lineage, or status; genuinely, authentically, in good faith or in a real and unfeigned way. The adverb particularly emphasizes action or relationship that is sincere, legitimate, or corresponds to an accepted or inherent standard, as opposed to that which is false, spurious, or illegitimate.
Semantic Range
genuinely, authentically, truly, sincerely, in a legitimate manner, in accordance with true origin or status
Root / Etymology
Adverbial form from the adjective γνήσιος ('legitimate by birth, genuine'), which itself derives from the root γον- ('to beget, birth'). The adverb γνησίως adds the regular adverbial ending -ως to the adjective.
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical and Hellenistic Greek, γνησίως commonly described an action or relationship that was true to genuine origin or congruent with the proper standard — such as a child born to lawful parents, or an authentic object versus a forgery. In the New Testament (e.g. Philippians 2:20), γνησίως describes sincere concern or authentic care, emphasizing true or heartfelt action as opposed to pretense. This nuance of legitimacy, authenticity, and sincerity endures across sources but is context-dependent: in genealogical settings, it may signify legitimacy of birth; in ethical or relational settings, genuineness of feeling or action. Standard English translations often render it 'genuinely' or 'truly,' but may obscure the original focus on legitimacy or authenticity. The Septuagint uses the cognate adjective to describe 'true' sons, highlighting the connection to genuine descent or status. The term contrasts in Greek with νομίμως ('lawfully'), emphasizing birth or intrinsic genuineness over formal/legal status per se.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
adverb from γνήσιος; genuinely, i.e. really:--naturally.
Root Family
γνησίως (gnēsiōs) — genuine, authentic, true, legitimate
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1104-01 |
γνησίως | gnesios | ADV |
genuinely | genuinely | genuinely | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1104-01 |
Philippians 2:20 | γνησίως | gnesios | ADV |
genuinely | genuinely | genuinely |