ἐνεργής
energḗs
G1756 substantive adjective
SILEX Entry
Definition
Having inherent activity or efficacy, capable of producing effects; describes something that is at work or operative, not simply possessing potential but manifesting active influence or power. In context, refers to something that is effectively at work (such as a word, command, or power) and producing observable impact.
Semantic Range
active, operative, effectual, at work, producing results, powerful (as effective), efficacious
Root / Etymology
From ἐν (in) and ἔργον (work, deed); the compound construction denotes 'in work,' that is, something being presently and actively at work. No evidence of influence from non-Greek sources.
Historical & Contextual Notes
The adjective ἐνεργής is relatively rare in earlier classical Greek, where it can describe that which is active, effective, or in action, in contrast to passive or dormant. In Koine Greek, including the New Testament (notably Hebrews 4:12), it conveys the sense of something currently operating to produce results—often used of words or powers seen as effectual and dynamic. Distinct from the noun ἔργον (deed, work), ἐνεργής refers to the quality or status of being operational rather than the particular actions performed. Related to the root for energy (ἐνέργεια), later adopted as a philosophical and technical term for actualization or activity. Modern English 'energy' preserves the sense of intrinsic operative power, though English translations often render ἐνεργής as 'effective' or 'powerful,' which may underspecify the immediacy and dynamism implied in Greek usage.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from ἐν and ἔργον; active, operative:--effectual, powerful.
Root Family
ἐνεργής (energēs) — active, operative, effectual, producing results
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1756-01 |
ἐνεργής | energes | ADJ.S NOM F SG |
effective | operative | operative | 3 |
Occurrences in Scripture
3 occurrences
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1756-01 |
1 Corinthians 16:9 | ἐνεργής | energes | ADJ.S NOM F SG |
effective | operative | operative |
G1756-01 |
Philemon 1:6 | ἐνεργὴς | energes | ADJ.P NOM F SG |
effective | operative | operative |
G1756-01 |
Hebrews 4:12 | ἐνεργὴς | energes | ADJ.S NOM M SG |
active | operative | active |