ἀναθεωρέω (anatheōreō)
anatheōreō
to contemplate
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb anatheōreō means to look at something with careful attention or to consider it thoroughly. It combines a prefix suggesting upward movement or repetition with a root meaning "to see," creating a sense of focused observation rather than casual glancing. This word appears only twice in the New Testament, giving it a specific and weighty presence in its limited context.
In Acts 17:23, Paul uses this term when describing how he observed the altar in Athens dedicated "to an unknown god." Here, it captures his attentive study of the local religious landscape before engaging with the philosophers. Similarly, Hebrews 13:7 instructs believers to remember their leaders and consider the outcome of their conduct. In both cases, the word implies a deliberate act of looking closely to gain understanding or insight.
Its rarity in Scripture highlights its precision. Translators often render it as "consider" or "observe," emphasizing that this is not passive seeing but active engagement with what is before the eyes. The term invites a posture of careful reflection, urging the reader to pay close attention to details that might otherwise be overlooked.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word anatheōreō invites us to look with intentionality. It is not a casual glance but a focused observation that seeks understanding. In Acts 17:23, Paul uses this term when he carefully examines the religious culture of Athens. He does not dismiss it outright but studies it to find a point of connection for sharing the gospel. This shows us that thoughtful engagement with our surroundings can open doors for meaningful dialogue.
Similarly, Hebrews 13:7 encourages believers to consider the lives of their spiritual leaders. By observing the outcome of their conduct, we are invited to imitate their faith. This word reminds us that true insight comes from paying close attention to details that might otherwise be missed. It calls for a posture of active reflection rather than passive seeing.
When we practice this kind of careful observation in our daily lives, we gain deeper wisdom. We learn to see God’s work in the people and places around us. This attentive stance helps us grow in faith and understanding, allowing us to respond with grace and clarity in every season.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- considering1×
- beholding1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀναθεωρῶν1×
- ἀναθεωροῦντες1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 17:23
For as I passed along and observed the objects of your worship, I also found an altar with this inscription: ‘TO AN UNKNOWN GOD.’ What therefore you worship in ignorance, I announce to you.
Paul uses this word to describe his deliberate study of Athenian religious objects before engaging the philosophers, showing how careful observation can lead to meaningful witness.
-
Hebrews 13:7
Remember your leaders, men who spoke to you the word of God, and considering the results of their conduct, imitate their faith.
The instruction to consider the outcome of leaders' conduct highlights how active reflection on others' faithfulness helps us imitate their trust in God.