ἀρκέω (arkeō)
arkeō
be sufficient
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 8 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb arkeō carries the core meaning of being sufficient or enough. In its active sense, it describes a power that is strong enough to defend or ward off difficulties, implying an unfailing strength that meets a need. This usage appears in John 6:7, where the disciples calculate whether resources are adequate for a task, and in 2 Corinthians 12:9, where divine grace is described as sufficient for Paul’s weakness.
The word also shifts to describe a state of contentment or satisfaction. In this passive sense, it indicates that one’s desires are met by what they possess. Luke 3:14 records soldiers being told to be content with their wages, while Hebrews 13:5 and 1 Timothy 6:8 use the term to encourage believers to find satisfaction in basic provisions like food and clothing.
Its etymology likely relates to the idea of raising a barrier or defense, which explains why it can mean both "to suffice" and "to protect." This dual nuance connects external provision with internal peace. The sources note that in John 14:8, Philip’s request for a sign is met with a question about how long Jesus must be with them before they recognize His sufficiency, highlighting the word’s theological weight regarding recognition of divine adequacy.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word arkeō reminds us that sufficiency is not about having everything we want, but about recognizing what is truly enough. In John 6:7, Philip calculates resources and finds them lacking, yet Jesus often meets us in those moments of shortage with grace that exceeds our calculations. This word invites us to shift our focus from scarcity to the steady presence of God.
Paul experienced this deeply in 2 Corinthians 12:9, where divine strength was made complete through his weakness. Rather than demanding more power, he found contentment in Christ’s sustaining grace. Similarly, Hebrews 13:5 assures us that we need not fear lack, for God promises never to leave or forsake us. This promise anchors our hearts against anxiety.
When life feels overwhelming, arkeō calls us to rest in the sufficiency of Christ. We are invited to find peace not in accumulating more, but in trusting that God’s provision is always adequate for our needs. This trust brings a quiet confidence that sustains us through every season.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 8 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- being satisfied2×
- we will be content.1×
- it may suffice1×
- it is enough1×
- do be content1×
- are sufficient1×
- Suffices1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀρκεῖ2×
- ἀρκέσῃ1×
- ἀρκοῦσιν1×
- ἀρκούμενος1×
- ἀρκούμενοι1×
- ἀρκεῖσθε1×
- ἀρκεσθησόμεθα.¶1×
Key Verses
-
II Corinthians 12:9
He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Most gladly therefore I will rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest on me.
This verse defines the word's theological core, showing that divine grace is fully adequate to sustain believers in their weakness.
-
John 6:7
Philip answered him, “Two hundred denarii worth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may receive a little.”
Philip uses this term to highlight human calculation of insufficiency, setting the stage for Jesus' miraculous provision.
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Hebrews 13:5
Be free from the love of money, content with such things as you have, for he has said, “I will in no way leave you, neither will I in any way forsake you.”
The author links contentment directly to God's faithful promise never to abandon His people.