ἄρχω (archō)
archō
be first
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 86 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb archō carries two distinct but related meanings: to begin an action or sequence, and to hold a position of authority as a ruler. In the New Testament, it appears in contexts ranging from chronological starting points to political power structures. For instance, Jesus uses it to describe the beginning of his suffering (Mark 8:31), while Paul references it when discussing leadership roles within the church (Romans 12:8).
Etymologically, archō is a primary verb that gives us our English word "architect" and titles like "archbishop," highlighting its connection to being first or chief. The sources note that in secular Greek, it often referred to high-ranking officials or magistrates. This background helps clarify why the Gospels contrast Jesus’ teaching on authority with the way Gentile rulers dominate their subjects (Mark 10:42-43).
Translators typically render archō as "begin," "start," "rule," or "reign" depending on the context. When used with a genitive case, it often indicates ruling over something specific. The word’s versatility allows it to bridge the concepts of initiation and governance, suggesting that in biblical thought, true leadership involves both starting a new way and guiding others through it.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word archō carries a dual weight in Scripture, bridging the concepts of beginning and ruling. When Jesus says He must begin to suffer in Jerusalem (Mark 8:31), He is not merely starting a timeline; He is initiating a new order of authority where love leads through sacrifice. This word reminds us that true leadership is not about dominating others, but about serving from the front.
In our daily lives, we often face moments where we must start something difficult or take responsibility for a situation. Whether it is repenting to God (Matthew 4:17) or stepping into a role of service, archō encourages us that God honors those who initiate faithfulness. It invites us to see our actions as the start of something meaningful, guided by His grace rather than our own strength.
This versatility also warns against the misuse of power. While worldly rulers dominate, Jesus redefines authority as service. We are called to lead by starting with humility and love, following Christ’s example. This perspective transforms how we view our responsibilities, turning them into opportunities for spiritual growth and witness.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 86 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- began25×
- He began18×
- having begun9×
- they began6×
- he began6×
- may begin3×
- beginning2×
- They began2×
- you will begin1×
- you may begin1×
- will you begin1×
- to rule over1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἤρξατο40×
- ἤρξαντο17×
- ἀρξάμενος8×
- ἄρχειν2×
- ἄρξηται2×
- ἄρξησθε2×
- ἀρξάμενοι2×
- Ἤρξατο1×
- Ἤρξαντο1×
- ἤρξαντό1×
- Ἀρχόμεθα1×
- Ἀρχομένων1×
Key Verses
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Mark 8:31
He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again.
This verse marks the pivotal moment Jesus begins to reveal the necessity of His suffering, shifting the focus from miracles to the cost of discipleship.
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Matthew 4:17
From that time, Jesus began to preach, and to say, “Repent! For the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.”
Here, Jesus begins His public ministry with a call to repentance, establishing the foundational message of the Kingdom of Heaven.
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Mark 6:7
He called to himself the twelve, and began to send them out two by two; and he gave them authority over the unclean spirits.
Jesus begins sending out the disciples, demonstrating that authority over spiritual forces is granted for service and mission.
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Matthew 16:21
From that time, Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and the third day be raised up.
This occurrence parallels Mark 8:31, emphasizing Jesus' deliberate start in teaching His disciples about His impending death and resurrection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Greek word archō mean?
How is archō different from other words for 'begin'?
Where does archō appear in the New Testament?
Every Occurrence (86 verses across 8 books)
Matthew 13 verses
From that time, Jesus began to preach, and to say, “Repent! For the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.”
Matthew 11:7As these went their way, Jesus began to say to the multitudes concerning John, “What did you go out into the wilderness…
Matthew 11:20Then he began to denounce the cities in which most of his mighty works had been done, because they didn’t repent.
Matthew 12:1At that time, Jesus went on the Sabbath day through the grain fields. His disciples were hungry and began to pluck…
Matthew 14:30But when he saw that the wind was strong, he was afraid, and beginning to sink, he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!”
Matthew 16:21From that time, Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders,…
Matthew 16:22Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, saying, “Far be it from you, Lord! This will never be done to you.”
Matthew 18:24When he had begun to settle, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents.
Matthew 20:8“When evening had come, the lord of the vineyard said to his manager, ‘Call the laborers and pay them their wages,…
Matthew 24:49and begins to beat his fellow servants, and eat and drink with the drunkards,
Matthew 26:22They were exceedingly sorrowful, and each began to ask him, “It isn’t me, is it, Lord?”
Matthew 26:37He took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and severely troubled.
Matthew 26:74Then he began to curse and to swear, “I don’t know the man!” Immediately the rooster crowed.