The meaning of “καλός”

Understanding kalós reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.

G2570

Greek Text

Strong's Concordance

καλός

Phonetickal-os'

Transliterationkalós

Grammar Code

G:A

Greek Adjective

Strong's Definition

Strong's Exhaustive Concordance

of uncertain affinity; properly, beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), i.e. valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished from ἀγαθός, which is properly intrinsic) X better, fair, good(-ly), honest, meet, well, worthy.

Scripture References

Occurrences in the Bible

90 total references

Reference	Text
Matthew 13:37	“He answered and said unto them, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man;”
John 10:14	“I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.”
1 Corinthians 7:8	“I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I.”
1 Thessalonians 5:21	“Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.”
Titus 3:8	“This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.”

Usage Statistics

Total Occurrences

90x

Most Frequent Book

Matthew

Book Distribution

Matthew20

Mark11

Luke7

John5

Acts1

Romans5

1 Corinthians4

2 Corinthians2

Galatians2

1 Thessalonians1

1 Timothy15

2 Timothy3

Titus4

Hebrews5

James3

1 Peter2

Devotional Reflection

How does the original Greek meaning of 'καλός' deepen your understanding of Matthew 13:37?

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