Goodness
ἀγαθωσύνη (agathōsunē)
Moral excellence expressed in generous, active kindness toward others.
Agathōsunē is the Greek word for goodness, describing moral excellence that expresses itself in generous action. It is a fruit of the Spirit that reflects God's own character of active, beneficent kindness.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith." — Galatians 5:22 (KJV)
Key Verses
Galatians 5:22
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith.”Read in context
Psalm 23:6
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.”Read in context
Romans 15:14
“And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge.”Read in context
Etymology and Original Meaning
Agathōsunē derives from agathos, meaning 'good' in the highest moral sense. While other Greek words for goodness emphasize attractiveness (kalos) or usefulness (chrēstos), agathōsunē conveys intrinsic moral excellence that actively expresses itself. It is goodness that does good — generous, purposeful, and sometimes boldly confrontational when necessary.
God's Goodness
Jesus declared, 'There is none good but one, that is, God' (Mark 10:18). God is the source and standard of all goodness. His goodness is not passive niceness but active benevolence — He causes rain to fall on the just and unjust (Matthew 5:45), provides daily bread, and ultimately gave His Son. 'Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me' (Psalm 23:6).
Goodness vs. Niceness
Biblical goodness is not the same as being nice. Jesus displayed goodness when He overturned the money-changers' tables and when He rebuked the Pharisees. Paul's rebuke of Peter at Antioch (Galatians 2:11) was an act of goodness. Agathōsunē sometimes requires uncomfortable truth-telling and courageous action — it seeks the genuine welfare of others, even when that means challenging them.
Cultivating Goodness
As a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), goodness is produced by the Holy Spirit's transformative work. It grows as believers meditate on God's goodness, practice generosity, serve others sacrificially, and allow the Spirit to shape their character. Paul prayed that God would 'fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness' in the Thessalonians (2 Thessalonians 1:11).
Frequently Asked Questions
What does goodness mean in the Bible?
Goodness (agathōsunē) is moral excellence expressed in generous, active kindness. It is a fruit of the Spirit that reflects God's own character of purposeful benevolence.
Is goodness the same as being nice?
No. Biblical goodness sometimes involves confrontation and hard truths spoken in love. It seeks others' genuine welfare, not just their comfort.
Which Bible verse uses the word "Goodness"?
Galatians 5:22 — "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith" (KJV). It also appears in Psalm 23:6, Romans 15:14.
Why does the Greek word behind "Goodness" matter?
Agathōsunē derives from agathos, meaning 'good' in the highest moral sense. English uses one word, "Goodness", where the Greek ἀγαθωσύνη (agathōsunē) carries the fuller sense: moral excellence expressed in generous, active kindness toward others.
Related Words
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
Goodness (ἀγαθωσύνη (agathōsunē))
Moral excellence expressed in generous, active kindness toward others.
Biblical Meaning of a Tree in a Dream (KJV)
The righteous life, generations, or judgment on fruitlessness.
Biblical Meaning of Snakes in a Dream (KJV)
Deception, hidden enemies, and spiritual attack.
Joy (χαρά (chara))
Deep, abiding gladness rooted in God's character and salvation.
Strong's G5479 — Joy
χαρά (chara) • Deep, abiding gladness rooted in God's character and salvation.
Strong's G5281 — Patience
μακροθυμία (makrothumia) • Long-suffering endurance — bearing with people and circumstances without giving up.
Where to go next
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