δόκιμος (dokimos)
dokimos
tested
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 7 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective dokimos describes something that has been tested and found genuine, particularly in the context of refined metal or currency. Its root meaning comes from the process of assaying coins to verify their purity, so a "dokimos" person is one whose character has survived scrutiny and stands as approved.
Scripture applies this image to faith and conduct, suggesting that trials serve as the furnace for spiritual integrity. James uses it to describe faith that endures testing, resulting in a mature believer (James 1:3), while Paul encourages Timothy to present himself as a worker who does not need to be ashamed because he correctly handles the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15). The term appears sparingly but carries significant weight regarding moral reliability.
Translators often render dokimos as "approved" or "tested," capturing the idea that value is proven through difficulty. Unlike mere opinion, this approval is objective and based on a rigorous standard. The word reminds readers that spiritual worth is not assumed but demonstrated through perseverance and faithful action under pressure.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word dokimos draws from the ancient practice of testing coins to ensure they were pure silver and not counterfeit. In this sense, it describes something that has passed scrutiny and stands as genuine. When applied to a person, it suggests that your character has been refined through trials and found reliable by God.
This image offers comfort when life feels heavy. Rather than viewing difficulties as random misfortunes, Scripture presents them as the very means by which spiritual integrity is forged. Just as metal must endure heat to be purified, your faith grows mature and steadfast through perseverance. You are not defined by the absence of pressure, but by the quality of character that remains after it passes.
God’s approval is the only standard that ultimately matters. While human opinions shift and fade, being approved by Him provides a secure foundation for daily living. This assurance invites you to trust His refining work, knowing that He sees the genuine faith that endures beneath the surface of everyday struggles.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- approved6×
- approved,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- δόκιμος2×
- δόκιμον2×
- δόκιμοι2×
- δόκιμος,1×
Key Verses
-
II Timothy 2:15
Give diligence to present yourself approved by God, a workman who doesn’t need to be ashamed, properly handling the Word of Truth.
Paul instructs Timothy to strive for God’s approval by correctly handling Scripture, linking moral integrity with faithful teaching.
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James 1:12
Blessed is a person who endures temptation, for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord promised to those who love him.
The promise of the crown of life is specifically tied to those who endure temptation and emerge as tested believers.
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II Corinthians 10:18
For it isn’t he who commends himself who is approved, but whom the Lord commends.
Paul contrasts self-praise with divine commendation, establishing that true approval comes solely from the Lord.