Brief Overview of δεκτός (G1184: dektós)

Dektós (pronounced dehk-TOS) is a Greek adjective derived from the root word δέχομαι (dékhomai), which means “to receive” or “to accept.” The term δεκτός conveys the sense of something that is “received” or “accepted,” and is used to describe things or people that are favorably received or accepted.

Root Word and Part of Speech:

• Root Word: δέχομαι (dékhomai), meaning “to receive” or “to accept.”
• Part of Speech: Adjective.

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Primary Meanings:

• Acceptable: The primary meaning of δεκτός is “acceptable,” referring to something that is received well or meets the criteria for approval or acceptance.
• Pleasing: It can also mean “pleasing,” describing something that is agreeable or favorable to someone.
• Received: It denotes that something or someone has been received or welcomed in a positive manner.

Scripture References

1. Luke 10:8: “And into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive (δεκτός, dektós) you, eat such things as are set before you:”

• Transliteration: dektós

1. 1 Thessalonians 2:4: “But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.”

• Note: This verse does not use δεκτός directly but contextually aligns with its meaning of being acceptable and pleasing to God.

1. Philippians 4:18: “But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received (δεκτός, dektós) of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable (δεκτός, dektós), well pleasing to God.”

• Transliteration: dektós

Detailed Description

BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Early Christian Literature) describes δεκτός as “acceptable” or “pleasing,” particularly in the context of being well-received or approved. The lexicon emphasizes its use in describing things that are favorably accepted by God or people.

Thayer’s Greek Lexicon defines δεκτός as “acceptable,” noting its application in contexts where something meets the required standards of approval. It highlights the term’s use in describing offerings or actions that are pleasing to God or accepted by others.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary supports the definition of δεκτός as “acceptable” or “pleasing.” It indicates that the term is used to describe things that are well-received or approved, particularly in religious or moral contexts.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance provides a straightforward definition of δεκτός as “accepted” or “pleasing.” It focuses on its application in describing things or actions that are received favorably.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature

1. Aristotle’s “Nicomachean Ethics”: Although δεκτός is not explicitly used, Aristotle discusses concepts related to acceptance and approval in moral and ethical contexts, reflecting the term’s general application in assessing what is pleasing or acceptable.
2. Plato’s “Republic”: Plato explores ideas of what is acceptable or pleasing in the context of justice and societal norms. The principles underlying δεκτός are present in his discussions about what is considered acceptable behavior and actions.
3. Xenophon’s “Cyropaedia”: Xenophon examines the acceptability of various actions and decisions within his narrative. While δεκτός is not directly mentioned, the concept of acceptance and approval is a recurring theme in his work.

Summary

Dektós (G1184) is an adjective in Greek meaning “acceptable,” “pleasing,” or “received.” It is derived from the root δέχομαι (dékhomai), which means “to receive” or “to accept.” The term is used to describe things or people that are favorably received or meet the criteria for approval. In the New Testament, δεκτός is used to indicate acceptance or approval, particularly in the context of offerings or actions pleasing to God. Classical Greek literature reflects similar themes of acceptance and approval, though the term itself may not be explicitly used. The concept of δεκτός is significant in understanding the nature of acceptance and what is considered favorable or pleasing in both biblical and historical contexts.