ophelos

Ophelos (Greek: ὄφελος, translit. ophelos) is a Greek noun meaning “benefit, advantage, profit, usefulness.” It denotes a positive outcome or asset that yields value for a person or group. The term appears across ancient Greek literature to express both practical gains and moral or social advantages.

Origin and cognates: Ophelos is related to the verb ὠφελέω, meaning “to help, to benefit.” The noun form carries the result or consequence of such benefit. In Modern Greek, ὄφελος retains the same range of meanings, including profit, usefulness, and advantageous outcome.

Usage: In classical texts, ophelos occurs in discussions of civic life, economics, and ethics, where it describes the benefit received by individuals, communities, or the state. It can refer to tangible profit as well as broader advantages related to welfare or justice.

Translations and interpretation: In English-language scholarship and translation, ophelos is typically rendered as “benefit,” “advantage,” or “profit.” The term also appears in studies of Greek rhetoric and political thought as a neutral marker of favorable outcomes in various contexts.