δωρεάν (dōrean)
dōrean
freely
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 8 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The word dōrean functions as an adverb meaning "freely" or "as a gift." It derives from the noun for gift (dorea), emphasizing that something is given without cost or expectation of return. In the New Testament, it appears eight times, often highlighting the unearned nature of divine grace or service.
Its usage falls into two distinct categories. First, it describes actions done gratuitously, such as receiving God’s gift of righteousness in Romans 3:24 or Jesus’ command to give freely what was received freely in Matthew 10:8. Second, it can mean "in vain" or "uselessly," as seen when Paul argues that grace would be meaningless if justification came through the law (Galatians 2:21).
This dual meaning underscores a key theological point: divine gifts are not transactions. Whether describing the free offer of salvation or the futility of trying to earn it, dōrean reinforces that God’s generosity stands outside human merit systems.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word dōrean reminds us that God’s gifts are not transactions. When you receive grace, it is not bought with merit but given as a pure gift. This truth frees you from the exhausting cycle of trying to earn approval. You do not need to pay for salvation; it is already yours through Christ.
This freedom also shapes how we serve others. Jesus told His disciples to give freely what they had received freely. Your ministry, kindness, and presence are meant to flow out without keeping score. When you offer help without expecting return, you reflect the heart of God who gives abundantly to all who thirst.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 8 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- freely4×
- freely.2×
- without payment1×
- without cause.’1×
- for naught1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- δωρεὰν6×
- δωρεάν.¶2×
- δωρεάν.1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 10:8
Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, and cast out demons. Freely you received, so freely give.
This verse links receiving and giving, showing that the authority and grace given to disciples must be shared without charge.
-
Romans 3:24
being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,
Here the word emphasizes that justification is a legal declaration made freely by God’s grace, not earned by works.
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Galatians 2:21
I don’t reject the grace of God. For if righteousness is through the law, then Christ died for nothing!”
Paul uses this term to argue that if righteousness comes through the law, Christ’s death was pointless and without purpose.
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Revelation of John 22:17
The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” He who hears, let him say, “Come!” He who is thirsty, let him come. He who desires, let him take the water of life freely.
The invitation to take the water of life freely underscores that eternal life is available to all who desire it, with no cost attached.