Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Temperance”
The biblical word “Temperance” traces back to Greek (sophrosyne (Greek)), where it meant “Self-control, moderation, restraint of desires”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “Moderation in drinking alcohol; more broadly, restraint and self-control”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Hebrew/Greek
Greeksophrosyne (Greek)Self-control, moderation, restraint of desires
Greek sophrosyne (G4997) from soo (safe, sound) + phren (mind). Paul lists it in 2 Tim 1:7; Titus 2:2; describes sound mind and self-discipline.
Medieval Latin / Church
LatintemperantiaModeration in eating, drinking, and bodily appetites
Latin temperantia from temperare (to moderate, restrain). One of the four cardinal virtues in Aristotelian virtue ethics; Augustine and Aquinas include it in Christian ethics.
Modern English
EnglishtemperanceModeration in drinking alcohol; more broadly, restraint and self-control
From Old French temperance < Latin temperantia. By 13c in English, often associated with abstinence from alcohol; broadened to all self-restraint.