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G2162 · Greek · New Testament
εὐφημία
Euphemia
Noun, feminine
Good report, good reputation, praise

Definition

The Greek euphemia (from eu- + pheme, speech) means literally 'good speech' or 'fair speaking,' used for a good report or favorable reputation. It appears in 2 Corinthians 6:8 in Paul's list of paradoxical apostolic experiences: 'through bad report and good report' — the servant of God continues in ministry regardless of how he is perceived. The word captures the relational currency of reputation in the ancient world.

Usage & Theological Significance

In Paul's 'great paradox' list of 2 Corinthians 6:4–10, he presents apostolic ministry as persisting through both dysphemia (ill report) and euphemia (good report). True ministry is not driven by reputation management. This liberates the servant of God from the tyranny of public opinion — whether praised or slandered, the ministry continues. Philippians 4:8 commands believers to think about whatever is euphema (of good report) — training the mind toward what is genuinely praiseworthy.

Key Bible Verses

2 Corinthians 6:8 Through glory and dishonor, bad report and good report; genuine, yet regarded as impostors.
Philippians 4:8 Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things.
Proverbs 22:1 A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.
Acts 6:3 Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom.
Hebrews 11:2 This is what the ancients were commended for.

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