ἄξιος (axios)
axios
worthy
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 39 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word axios carries the sense of being worthy or deserving, rooted in an ancient idea of weighing something on a scale to determine its value. It functions as an adjective describing persons or things that match a standard of merit. In the New Testament, it appears frequently in the Gospels and Revelation, often linked with the concept of what is fitting or appropriate for a given situation.
This term can describe positive worthiness, such as when John the Baptist calls for actions that demonstrate genuine repentance (Matthew 3:8), or when Jesus instructs workers to receive their keep (Luke 10:7). It also describes negative desert, as seen in Luke 23:41, where the criminal acknowledges his punishment is just. The word connects closely with the idea of equivalence, suggesting that the outcome or treatment received corresponds directly to the character or deeds involved.
A notable feature of axios is its use with the genitive case to specify what something is worthy of, whether it is a reward, respect, or judgment. In Revelation 5:2-4, the Lamb is declared worthy to open the scroll because of His redemptive work. This usage highlights that worthiness in Scripture is not merely an abstract quality but a relational standing based on action and identity, often pointing to divine approval or just retribution.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word axios invites us to look at life through the lens of balance and true value. In ancient markets, it described something that matched a specific weight on a scale. When Scripture uses this term, it often points to a correspondence between our actions and their outcomes, or between Christ’s identity and our response to Him. It is not about earning love through perfection, but about living in a way that aligns with the truth of who God is.
In Matthew 3:8, John the Baptist calls for fruit worthy of repentance. This suggests that genuine change in the heart naturally produces visible results in how we live. Similarly, Luke 10:7 reminds us that those who serve faithfully deserve their keep. These passages show that worthiness is relational; it reflects a life that has been transformed by grace and now mirrors the character of Christ.
Ultimately, the highest expression of axios is found in Revelation, where the Lamb alone is declared worthy to open the scroll. Our confidence does not rest on our own flawless record, but on His redemptive work. This truth offers deep comfort: we are accepted because He is worthy, and His grace enables us to live lives that honor Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 39 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- worthy21×
- Worthy5×
- worthy.3×
- worthy,3×
- worthy [is]2×
- worthy;1×
- suitable1×
- fitting1×
- comparable1×
- [things] worthy1×
- [of anything] worthy1×
- Worthy [is]1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἄξιος13×
- ἄξιον6×
- ἄξια4×
- ἄξιόν3×
- ἀξίους3×
- ἄξιός2×
- ἄξιοί2×
- ἄξιος.2×
- ἀξία,2×
- ἄξιος·1×
- ἄξιος,1×
- ἄξιοι.1×
Key Verses
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Matthew 3:8
Therefore produce fruit worthy of repentance!
This verse connects the internal reality of repentance with external actions, showing that true change produces visible fruit.
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Luke 10:7
Remain in that same house, eating and drinking the things they give, for the laborer is worthy of his wages. Don’t go from house to house.
Here Jesus affirms the dignity of laborers, indicating that those who share the gospel have a rightful claim to support from those they serve.
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Luke 23:41
And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong.”
The criminal on the cross uses this word to acknowledge that his suffering is justly deserved, highlighting the concept of fair retribution.
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Romans 8:18
For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which will be revealed toward us.
Paul contrasts present sufferings with future glory, using the word to show that current pain cannot be measured against eternal joy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does axios mean in the Bible?
Is worthiness in Scripture about earning salvation?
How is axios used in the Gospels?
Why is Jesus called worthy in Revelation?
Every Occurrence (39 verses across 10 books)
Matthew 7 verses
Therefore produce fruit worthy of repentance!
Matthew 10:10Take no bag for your journey, neither two coats, nor sandals, nor staff: for the laborer is worthy of his food.
Matthew 10:11Into whatever city or village you enter, find out who in it is worthy, and stay there until you go on.
Matthew 10:13If the household is worthy, let your peace come on it, but if it isn’t worthy, let your peace return to you.
Matthew 10:37He who loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and he who loves son or daughter more than me isn’t…
Matthew 10:38He who doesn’t take his cross and follow after me isn’t worthy of me.
Matthew 22:8“Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding is ready, but those who were invited weren’t worthy.