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G2176 · Greek · New Testament
εὐώνυμος
euonymos
Adjective
left, on the left side

Definition

On the left side — a euphemism, as the literal meaning is 'well-named' or 'of good name' (eu + onoma). The Greeks considered the left side unlucky and used this positive-sounding word to avoid saying 'left' directly. In the New Testament, it appears in contexts of judgment (sheep on the right, goats on the left) and the request of James and John.

Usage & Theological Significance

Euonymos carries the weight of eschatological separation. In Matthew 25:33, the goats are placed on the euonymos — the left. Despite the word's euphemistic 'good name,' the position is one of judgment. When James and John asked to sit at Jesus's right and left (Mark 10:37), they didn't understand that the 'left' of Jesus at His glorification was a cross — the two thieves occupied those positions. The word teaches us to be careful what we request from God.

Key Bible Verses

Matthew 25:33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left [euonymos].
Matthew 25:41 Then he will say to those on his left [euonymos], 'Depart from me, you who are cursed.'
Mark 10:37 Let one of us sit at your right and the other at your left [euonymos] in your glory.
Mark 10:40 To sit at my right or left [euonymos] is not for me to grant.
Revelation 10:2 He planted his right foot on the sea and his left [euonymos] foot on the land.

Related Words

External Resources

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