Brief Overview of ἀρκέω (G714: arkéō)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: arkéō

Root Words:

• ἀρκέω (arkéō): This verb is derived from the root ἀρκ- (ark-), which conveys the notion of sufficiency or adequacy.

Primary Meanings:

• To be sufficient: To be enough or adequate to meet a need.
• To suffice: To provide what is necessary or desired in terms of quantity or quality.
• To endure or support: In some contexts, it also carries the meaning of enduring or providing support.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG defines ἀρκέω as meaning “to be sufficient” or “to suffice.” It emphasizes the verb’s use in contexts where something meets the necessary requirements or is adequate for a particular purpose. The verb can also imply the ability to endure or provide support.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon describes ἀρκέω as meaning “to be sufficient” or “to suffice.” It highlights its use in indicating that something is enough to fulfill a need or requirement.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary supports BDAG’s definition, noting that ἀρκέω means “to be sufficient” or “to be enough.” It also mentions its use in expressing endurance or support.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon defines ἀρκέω similarly as “to be sufficient” or “to suffice,” aligning with its use in classical Greek to denote adequacy.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s identifies ἀρκέω as meaning “to be sufficient” or “to suffice,” focusing on its role in indicating that something is adequate or enough.

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Bible Verses:

• 2 Corinthians 12:9 (KJV): “But he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”
• Here, ἀρκέω is used to convey the sufficiency of grace.
• Philippians 4:11 (KJV): “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.”
• This verse uses ἀρκέω to express contentment in various situations.

3. Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

In classical Greek literature, ἀρκέω was used in various contexts to describe sufficiency and endurance:

• Aristotle’s “Ethics”: The term is used to discuss the adequacy of virtues and actions in achieving moral goals.
• Plato’s “Republic”: Refers to the sufficiency of justice and wisdom in creating a just society.
• Homer’s “Iliad”: Used to describe the endurance of characters in the face of challenges.

4. Summary:

The term ἀρκέω (G714: arkéō) means “to be sufficient,” “to suffice,” or “to endure.” It is derived from the root ἀρκ- (ark-), and it is used to indicate that something is adequate to meet a need or requirement. BDAG, Thayer’s, Vines, LSJ, and Strong’s all agree on its primary meaning of sufficiency. The verb is also used in classic Greek literature to describe endurance and support.