ἐγκρίνω (egkrinō)
egkrinō
to classify
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb egkrinō means to reckon or judge someone as belonging to a specific group. It combines the prefix en, meaning "in," with krinō, meaning "to judge." This construction suggests a formal classification, where one evaluates a person and places them within a particular category or class.
Its usage is extremely rare in the New Testament, appearing only once in 2 Corinthians 10:12. Here, Paul contrasts himself with false teachers who measure themselves by their own standards. He refuses to engage in this self-classification, noting that they lack the wisdom to understand his true standing among the apostles.
This single occurrence highlights a sharp distinction between human self-assessment and divine recognition. The word underscores the idea that worth is not determined by internal comparison but by an external, authoritative judgment. Paul uses it to reject the validity of those who define their own ministry without regard for Christ’s commission.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word egkrinō describes a formal act of classification, where someone is judged to belong to a specific group. In 2 Corinthians 10:12, Paul uses this term to reject the self-assessment of false teachers who measured their own worth against each other. He refuses to engage in this kind of internal ranking, pointing out that such comparisons lack true understanding.
This passage offers a gentle correction for our own lives. We often fall into the trap of comparing our ministries, gifts, or spiritual progress with others. Paul reminds us that our standing is not determined by how we measure ourselves against our peers, but by Christ’s commission and authority. When we stop trying to classify ourselves based on human standards, we find peace in knowing who God has already called us to be.
Instead of seeking validation through comparison, we can rest in the confidence that our value comes from being counted among Christ’s own. This shifts our focus from rivalry to reliance on Him. It is a freeing truth that allows us to serve without fear of inadequacy or pride.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to classify1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐγκρῖναι1×
Key Verses
-
II Corinthians 10:12
For we are not bold to number or compare ourselves with some of those who commend themselves. But they themselves, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves with themselves, are without understanding.
Paul uses this rare verb to explicitly reject the false teachers' practice of self-classification and internal comparison.