ἐγκράτεια
egkrateia
self-control
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word ἐγκράτεια (egkrateia) refers to the quality of self-control. It involves governing one's own desires, passions, or appetites, often to achieve a higher goal or to align with one's values. This concept is closely related to the idea of mastering or taming one's own nature. In the limited occurrences of the word in the Bible, we see its significance in personal character development and moral stability. It implies a level of maturity, self-awareness, and responsibility. This quality can allow individuals to navigate challenging circumstances, avoid excesses, and cultivate a closer relationship with God. While the exact implications may vary depending on the specific context, the underlying idea remains consistent, emphasizing the importance of self-regulation and self-leadership.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
4 total occurrences across the text
As he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was terrified, and answered, “Go your way for this time, and when it is convenient for me, I will summon you.”
Galatians 5:23gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
2 Peter 1:6and in knowledge, self-control; and in self-control perseverance; and in perseverance godliness;
2 Peter 1:6and in knowledge, self-control; and in self-control perseverance; and in perseverance godliness;