Antioquia

Greek word · Strong G2054

What does strife mean?

Strife is quarreling and contention — conflict that divides people. In the King James it translates two Greek words: eris, the quarrel itself (1 Corinthians 3:3, Romans 13:13), and eritheia, selfish rivalry (Galatians 5:20, Philippians 2:3). Both are listed among the works of the flesh.

ἔρις

éris · transliteration

In Strong’s lexicon
a quarrel, i.e. (by implication) wrangling
In the King James
  • strife4
  • contentions2
Appears in
9 verses

See the full G2054 entry →Also in the lexicon: G2052 ἐριθεία

The meaning of strife in the Bible

Eris was, in Greek mythology, the goddess of discord. In the New Testament it is the competitive spirit that turns differences into quarrels. Paul found it in the church at Corinth and gave the diagnosis: “For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?” (1 Corinthians 3:3).

Eritheia is close to it: the rivalry of those who act out of self-interest. In Galatians 5:20 the King James calls eris “variance” and eritheia “strife”. Paul's remedy for both is the same: “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves” (Philippians 2:3).

Where strife appears

Galatians 5:20

Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,
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1 Corinthians 3:3

For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?
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Romans 13:13

Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.
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Philippians 2:3

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
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Frequently asked questions

What does variance mean in Galatians 5:20?
It is the Greek eris, quarreling or discord. The King James translates it “variance” there, and “strife” or “contentions” elsewhere; in the same verse, “strife” is a different word, eritheia, selfish rivalry.
Why is strife a work of the flesh?
Because it comes from pride and the desire to win, not from the Spirit. In Galatians 5:19-21, strife sits on the same list as idolatry and witchcraft — and the fruit of the Spirit, right after, begins with love and peace (Galatians 5:22).

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