Brief Overview of κυριεύω (Strong’s G2961: kyrieuō)

Unveiling the Word

The Greek word κυριεύω (kyrieuō) holds significant importance in Biblical studies due to its connotations of authority, rule, and dominion. Appearing in contexts that describe mastery or control, it provides insight into social, spiritual, and political hierarchies of the New Testament period. Understanding this word is crucial for interpreting passages where themes of authority, lordship, and power are prominent, especially within the context of how early Christians viewed both human and divine authority.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: κυριεύω (kyrieuō) [kee-ree-EH-oh]

Etymology: The term κυριεύω is derived from the root word κύριος (kýrios), meaning “lord” or “master.” The verb form κυριεύω implies the act of exercising lordship or authority over something or someone.

Part of Speech: Verb. As a verb, κυριεύω functions in various tenses, voices, and moods to indicate the act of ruling or dominating. It follows standard conjugation patterns for Greek verbs.

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Defining Meanings

Meaning 1: To Rule or Dominate
The primary meaning of κυριεύω is “to rule” or “to have dominion over.” This sense is often used to describe rulers, masters, or leaders who exercise control over a people or territory.

Meaning 2: To Exercise Authority
Another common usage is “to exercise authority,” which may refer to both legitimate and illegitimate forms of control. This is seen in contexts where individuals or entities assert power over others, such as kings or political leaders.

Meaning 3: To Master or Overcome
In a broader or metaphorical sense, κυριεύω can also mean “to master” or “to overcome” a particular situation or challenge. This usage often appears in moral or ethical discussions, such as mastering one’s passions or desires.

Exploring Similar Words

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ἄρχω (archō) [AR-kho]: While also meaning “to rule,” this word generally carries the sense of leading or beginning something, especially in a hierarchical or governmental context. It is more focused on leadership than on the exertion of control.

δυναστεύω (dynasteuō) [dy-nas-TEH-oh]: This verb means “to wield power” or “to reign,” often in the sense of political or military force. It differs from κυριεύω in that it implies more direct, sometimes oppressive power.

ἐξουσιάζω (exousiazō) [ex-ou-si-AH-zo]: Meaning “to exercise authority,” it is similar to κυριεύω but is more specific to having the right or privilege to act. It is often used in legal or formal contexts.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Verbs:

• Tense, Voice, Mood: κυριεύω can be found in different tenses such as the Present, Aorist, and Perfect. It appears in the Active voice (e.g., “I rule”) and the Passive voice (e.g., “I am ruled”). It can be used in moods like Indicative, Imperative, and Subjunctive.
• Person and Number: κυριεύω is conjugated across all persons (1st, 2nd, 3rd) and numbers (singular, plural).
• Aspect: The verb κυριεύω exhibits imperfective (ongoing action), perfective (completed action), and stative (resultant state) aspects depending on its tense.
• Conjugation Table (Present Indicative):

For more details on Greek verbs, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

In the New Testament and other ancient Greek texts, κυριεύω conveys themes of authority, control, and dominion. It is often used to describe earthly rulers or the lordship of Christ, contrasting worldly power with divine authority. The theological implications are profound, especially in highlighting the nature of Christian discipleship and submission to Christ’s lordship, as well as the rejection of worldly dominion models where leaders “lord it over” others.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Luke 22:25: “And he said to them, ‘The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship [κυριεύουσιν] over them, and those in authority over them are called benefactors.'”
Romans 6:9: “Knowing that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion [κυριεύει] over him.”
2 Corinthians 1:24: “Not that we lord [κυριεύομεν] it over your faith, but we work with you for your joy, for you stand firm in your faith.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

κυριεύω (kyrieuō) is a significant verb in both Biblical and classical Greek literature, carrying deep implications about authority, rule, and governance. It encapsulates the difference between worldly power and divine authority, making it central to understanding themes of leadership, discipleship, and ethics in the New Testament.

Did You Know?

• Did you know? The term κυριεύω is also used metaphorically to describe mastery over sin, particularly in Paul’s writings.
• Did you know? In early Christian thought, κυριεύω was often contrasted with servanthood, reflecting Jesus’ teaching on leadership and humility.
• Did you know? The verb κυριεύω also appears in non-biblical contexts to denote political dominion, showcasing the multifaceted nature of “lordship” in the ancient world.