Divine Calculation: ψηφίζω (Strong’s G5585: psephizo) Counts the Cost

Strong’s G5585: From ψῆφος (pebble/vote); to compute by using pebbles, a method of calculation in ancient Greece. Refers to careful counting or calculation, especially in the context of thoughtful planning and deliberate decision-making. Used metaphorically in NT for counting the cost of discipleship.

U- Unveiling the Word

Ψηφίζω represents a fascinating intersection of ancient practical customs and spiritual truth. In ancient Greece, pebbles were used for counting and voting, giving this word a rich cultural context. In the New Testament, it takes on profound theological significance, particularly in Luke’s Gospel where Jesus employs it to illustrate the importance of carefully considering the cost of discipleship. The word embodies the concept of thorough evaluation and deliberate calculation, suggesting that following Christ requires thoughtful consideration rather than impulsive decision-making. This remains deeply relevant today as believers are called to carefully evaluate their commitment to Christ.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: ψηφίζω, psephizo, /psay-FID-zo/
• Detailed pronunciation: p-say-FEED-zoh
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• ψῆφος (psephos) – base noun meaning “pebble” or “vote”
• -ίζω (-izo) – verbal suffix indicating “to make” or “to do”
  The combination creates the meaning “to count with pebbles” or “to calculate”

D – Defining Meanings

• To count or calculate using pebbles
• To compute or reckon carefully
• To evaluate thoroughly

For compound words:
The verb ending -ίζω transforms the noun ψῆφος (pebble) into an action, creating the meaning “to use pebbles” for counting or calculation

Translation Options:

• “to calculate” – emphasizes the mathematical precision
• “to count the cost” – captures the evaluative aspect
• “to reckon” – reflects both calculation and consideration

E – Exploring Similar Words

λογίζομαι (logizomai, /log-ID-zom-ahee/) – to reason, consider, reckon – focuses more on mental reasoning than physical counting. See G3049

ἀριθμέω (arithmeo, /ar-ith-MEH-oh/) – to number, count – more general term for counting. See G705

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a verb, ψηφίζω exhibits:

• Tense: Present
• Voice: Active
• Mood: Indicative
• Person: Third
• Number: Singular
• Aspect: Progressive/Linear

In English, morphological variations would include:

• Present: counts/calculates
• Past: counted/calculated
• Present participle: counting/calculating

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

The rich semantic range of ψηφίζω is well-documented across lexical sources. BDAG emphasizes its connection to careful calculation and deliberate counting, while Thayer’s highlights its evolution from physical counting with pebbles to metaphorical usage. LSJ provides extensive documentation of its use in classical Greek, particularly in financial and voting contexts. Vine’s notes its singular New Testament usage as particularly significant in teaching about discipleship. Moulton and Milligan’s papyri findings confirm its common usage in business and accounting contexts, suggesting Jesus used a familiar commercial term to illustrate spiritual truth.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Luke 14:28: “For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and [ψηφίζω] calculate the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?”

Additional References:
Revelation 13:18

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Ψηφίζω embodies the principle of thoughtful consideration in discipleship. Its progression from a practical counting method using pebbles to a metaphor for spiritual evaluation demonstrates how Jesus used everyday concepts to convey profound spiritual truths. The word reminds us that following Christ isn’t about impulsive decisions but careful consideration of commitment. This connects directly to the Gospel message – while salvation is a free gift, Jesus calls us to thoughtfully consider the implications of following Him, emphasizing both the cost and incomparable value of discipleship.

D – Did You Know?

• The word’s root (ψῆφος) gave us the modern term “psephology” – the study of elections
• In ancient Athens, black and white pebbles were used for voting, with white signifying approval
• The concept influenced early church practices of voting on church matters

Strong’s G5585: From ψῆφος (pebble/vote); to compute by using pebbles, a method of calculation in ancient Greece. Refers to careful counting or calculation, especially in the context of thoughtful planning and deliberate decision-making. Used metaphorically in NT for counting the cost of discipleship.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: calculation, counting, discipleship, planning, evaluation, commitment, cost, consideration, wisdom, decision-making​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​