Brief Overview of σκοπέω (Strong’s G4648: skopeō)

Strong’s G4648: A verb meaning to look at, observe carefully, or take heed. From σκοπός (watchman, mark), it implies careful observation with purpose. In NT usage, it carries spiritual significance of watching over oneself and others, remaining vigilant in faith, and examining one’s spiritual condition.

U- Unveiling the Word

σκοπέω embodies the concept of intentional, purposeful observation that goes beyond mere seeing. In the New Testament, it carries profound theological weight, particularly in contexts of spiritual vigilance and discernment. The word implies a watchful guardian’s careful attention, whether watching over one’s own spiritual condition or caring for others in the faith community. Early church fathers frequently employed this term when discussing spiritual oversight and self-examination. Today, it continues to resonate with believers as a call to maintain spiritual vigilance and exercise discerning oversight in both personal faith and community life.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σκοπέω, skopeō, /skop-eh’-o/
• Detailed pronunciation: ‘skop’ as in “scope,” followed by ‘eh-o’ with emphasis on ‘eh’
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• Root: σκοπ- (skop-) – related to watching or observing
• Suffix: -έω (-eō) – common Greek verbal ending indicating continuous action
• Derived from σκοπός (skopos), meaning watchman or mark

D – Defining Meanings

• To look at or observe carefully
• To take heed or beware
• To consider, contemplate, or examine
• To look out for, watch for (with a purpose)

For compound words: Not a compound word, but derives from the root σκοπ- with the verbal suffix -έω indicating ongoing action.

Translation Options:

• “Watch carefully” – Captures the intentional, continuous nature of the observation
• “Take heed” – Emphasizes the warning or cautionary aspect
• “Consider attentively” – Highlights the thoughtful examination implied

E – Exploring Similar Words

• βλέπω (blepō) /blep’-o/ – to see or look at, more general term See G991
• θεωρέω (theōreō) /theh-o-reh’-o/ – to be a spectator, contemplate See G2334
• ὁράω (horaō) /hor-ah’-o/ – to see, perceive with eyes See G3708

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a verb, σκοπέω exhibits these features:

• Tense: Present (continuous action)
• Voice: Active
• Mood: Indicative, Imperative
• Person: First, Second, Third
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Aspect: Progressive/Linear

The present tense indicates ongoing action, while the active voice shows the subject performing the action. In English, it might appear as:

• I watch (Present Active Indicative)
• Watch! (Present Active Imperative)
• They are watching (Present Active Indicative)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes σκοπέω’s connection to careful observation and goal-oriented watching. Thayer’s highlights its use in contexts of spiritual vigilance. LSJ traces its development from classical usage in military contexts to metaphorical applications. Vine’s notes its particular use in pastoral contexts of spiritual oversight. Strong’s connects it to the noun σκοπός, emphasizing purposeful watching. Moulton and Milligan provide evidence of its use in administrative contexts in papyri. LEH notes its frequent use in the Septuagint for watchful protection.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“Take heed [σκοπέω] therefore that the light which is in thee be not darkness.” Luke 11:35

Additional References:
Romans 16:17
2 Corinthians 4:18
Galatians 6:1
Philippians 2:4
Philippians 3:17

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

σκοπέω encapsulates the vital spiritual discipline of watchful attention, both to our own spiritual condition and to the welfare of others in Christ’s body. This word reminds us that the Christian life requires active, intentional vigilance. It promotes the Gospel by emphasizing our responsibility to guard the truth of Christ’s message while watching over one another in love, reflecting Jesus’s own watchful care over His church.

D – Did You Know?

1. The word shares its root with modern English terms like “scope” and “telescope.”
2. In ancient Greek military contexts, σκοπέω was used for sentinel duty, watching for approaching dangers.
3. Early Christian monastics used this term extensively in writings about spiritual vigilance and prayer.

Strong’s G4648: A verb meaning to look at, observe carefully, or take heed. From σκοπός (watchman, mark), it implies careful observation with purpose. In NT usage, it carries spiritual significance of watching over oneself and others, remaining vigilant in faith, and examining one’s spiritual condition.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: watch, observe, guard, vigilance, discernment, oversight, spiritual-examination, care, protection, attention, warning, careful-observation, biblical-greek, new-testament, spiritual-discipline​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​