Ἐπικούρειος
Epikoúreios
G1946 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A follower or adherent of Epicurus; specifically, one who subscribes to the philosophical teachings of Epicurus, particularly in the domains of ethics and cosmology. In Hellenistic and Roman contexts, the term denotes someone associated with the Epicurean school of thought or lifestyle. In the New Testament context, refers to a member of the Epicurean philosophical sect.
Semantic Range
Epicurean philosopher, adherent of Epicureanism, follower of Epicurus, member of the Epicurean school
Root / Etymology
From the proper name Ἐπίκουρος (Epíkouros), the founder of the Epicurean philosophical school (4th–3rd century BCE), with the adjectival suffix -ειος, indicating relation or belonging. Thus, Ἐπικούρειος means 'of or pertaining to Epicurus.' Unrelated to ἐπικουρία ('aid'), despite graphical similarity.
Historical & Contextual Notes
The Epicureans were adherents of Epicurus (c. 341–270 BCE), whose philosophy focused on the pursuit of a tranquil life through the absence of pain (aponia) and disturbance (ataraxia), grounded in an atomistic, materialistic cosmology. As used in Acts 17:18, Ἐπικούρειοι (plural) designates members of the Epicurean school encountered by Paul in Athens. In this period, ‘Epicurean’ signified both philosophical commitments and a broader cultural identity shaped by Epicurus’ teachings. Standard English Bibles usually transliterate or directly translate it as 'Epicurean.' The term denotes a distinct group which differed notably from other contemporary philosophical schools (e.g., Stoics). In later usage, especially in Latin and modern languages, 'Epicurean' acquired connotations of indulgence in pleasure, but in Greek and Hellenistic contexts, it primarily referenced a school of philosophy emphasizing rational pleasure and freedom from superstition.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from (compare ἐπικουρία) (a noted philosopher); an Epicurean or follower of Epicurus:--Epicurean.
Root Family
Ἐπικούρειος (Epikoureios) — of Epicurus, follower of Epicurus, Epicurean philosopher, adherent of Epicureanism
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1946-01 |
Ἐπικουρίων | epikourion | N GEN M PL |
Epicureans | of Epicureans | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 total occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1946-01 |
Acts 17:18 | Ἐπικουρίων | epikourion | N GEN M PL |
Epicureans | of Epicureans |