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G2175 · Greek · New Testament
εὐωδία
euodia
Noun, feminine
fragrance, sweet aroma

Definition

A sweet smell, fragrance, or pleasant aroma. Used metaphorically for the 'aroma of Christ' — the spiritual fragrance that believers carry. In the ancient world, a victorious general's procession included incense bearers; Paul uses this image for the church's witness spreading like fragrance through the world.

Usage & Theological Significance

Euodia transforms evangelism from argument into aroma. Paul says believers are 'the pleasing aroma of Christ' (2 Corinthians 2:15) — but this fragrance has a dual effect: to those being saved, it smells like life; to those perishing, like death. The gospel is not neutral. Christ's sacrifice was a 'fragrant offering' to God (Ephesians 5:2), and our lives, when lived in self-giving love, continue that fragrance in the world.

Key Bible Verses

2 Corinthians 2:15 For we are to God the pleasing aroma [euodia] of Christ.
Ephesians 5:2 Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering [euodia] and sacrifice to God.
Philippians 4:18 They are a fragrant offering [euodia], an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.
Genesis 8:21 The LORD smelled the pleasing aroma.
2 Corinthians 2:14 Through us spreads the fragrance [euodia] of the knowledge of him everywhere.

Related Words

External Resources

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