ἀξιόω (axioō)
axioō
to deem worthy
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 7 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb axioō means to consider someone or something worthy, fitting, or deserving. Derived from the word for "worth" (axios), it carries a sense of value and proportion. In the New Testament, it appears in contexts where characters assess whether an action is appropriate or if a person deserves a certain treatment. For instance, in Luke 7:7, the centurion tells Jesus he is not worthy to have Him enter his house, highlighting a deep sense of humility before divine authority.
This word often describes a judgment based on merit or fitness. It can be used actively, as when Paul says it was fitting for him to think this way (Acts 26:9), or passively, indicating that someone is deemed worthy of something. In Hebrews 3:3, Jesus is counted worthy of more glory than Moses, emphasizing His superior status. The term also appears in ethical instructions, such as in 1 Timothy 5:17, where elders who rule well are considered worthy of double honor.
A notable feature of axioō is its use in expressing what is morally or socially appropriate. It does not merely describe feelings but implies a reasoned assessment of value. Translators often render it as "deem worthy," "consider fitting," or "deserve." Its presence in diverse books like Acts, Luke, and Hebrews shows its versatility in describing both human judgments and divine evaluations.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word axioō invites us to look at value through a lens of humility and reverence. In Luke 7:7, a Roman centurion tells Jesus he is not worthy to have Him enter his home. This was not just polite modesty; it was a clear-eyed recognition of divine authority. He understood that approaching the Master required a heart ready to receive grace, not demand it.
Yet this word also carries hope for those who serve. In 1 Timothy 5:17, elders who lead with integrity are deemed worthy of honor. This suggests that faithful stewardship is never overlooked by God. Whether we are standing in awe before Christ or serving others in our communities, our actions carry weight when done with a sincere heart.
Hebrews 3:3 reminds us that Jesus is counted worthy of far more glory than Moses. This truth anchors our faith. We do not earn this worthiness by our own strength, but we are invited to rest in the one who fully deserves all honor. Let this shape how you view your own calling and your relationship with God.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- will he deserve1×
- was considering1×
- should be counted worthy1×
- has been counted worthy,1×
- counted I worthy1×
- We deem it worthy1×
- He may count worthy1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἠξίωται,1×
- ἠξίωσα1×
- ἠξίου1×
- ἀξιώσῃ1×
- ἀξιωθήσεται1×
- ἀξιοῦμεν1×
- ἀξιούσθωσαν1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 7:7
Therefore I didn’t even think myself worthy to come to you; but say the word, and my servant will be healed.
The centurion uses this word to express profound humility, acknowledging that Jesus' presence is too holy for his own home.
-
Hebrews 3:3
For he has been counted worthy of more glory than Moses, because he who built the house has more honor than the house.
This verse establishes Christ's supreme status by stating He is counted worthy of more glory than Moses, the great lawgiver.
-
I Timothy 5:17
Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and in teaching.
Paul instructs the church to recognize those who lead well as deserving special honor, linking worthiness to faithful labor in teaching.