αὐτάρκεια (autarkeia)
autarkeia
self-sufficiency
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun autarkeia describes a state of being sufficient in oneself, often translated as "self-sufficiency" or "contentment." In the New Testament, it appears only twice, carrying a distinct spiritual weight rather than a purely economic one. The sources indicate two primary nuances: a subjective sense of inner sufficiency and a practical attitude of contentment with one’s circumstances.
In 2 Corinthians 9:8, Paul uses the term to describe God’s power to make all grace abound, enabling believers to have abundance in every good work. Here, the word points to a divine source of strength that prevents need. Conversely, in 1 Timothy 6:6, it is paired with godliness as a means of great gain, specifically when accompanied by contentment. This usage highlights a mindset that finds satisfaction in what one has, rather than chasing external wealth.
The concept originates from the idea of needing no outside aid, yet Scripture reorients this independence toward reliance on God. Translators often render it as "contentment" in the pastoral context of Timothy to capture the heart attitude, while "sufficiency" or "abundance" fits the theological emphasis in Corinthians. The word bridges the gap between material need and spiritual peace.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Living with a sense of self-sufficiency often feels like safety, yet Scripture shows us that true stability comes from God alone. In 2 Corinthians 9:8, Paul explains that God’s power makes all grace abound so we have enough for every good work. This means our ability to give and serve does not depend on our own resources but on His generous provision.
At the same time, 1 Timothy 6:6 reminds us that godliness combined with contentment is great gain. We are invited to find peace in what we have rather than chasing more. This balance allows us to rest in God’s care while actively sharing His love with others.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- sufficiency1×
- contentment.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- αὐτάρκειαν1×
- αὐταρκείας.1×
Key Verses
-
II Corinthians 9:8
And God is able to make all grace abound to you, that you, always having all sufficiency in everything, may abound to every good work.
Paul uses this word to show that God's power provides enough grace for believers to abound in every good work.
-
I Timothy 6:6
But godliness with contentment is great gain.
The term is paired with godliness to define true gain as finding satisfaction in one’s current circumstances rather than pursuing wealth.