ἐκδαπανάω (ekdapanaō)
ekdapanaō
to expend
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb ekdapanaō means to spend or expend something completely, often implying a sense of exhaustion or total depletion. Derived from the prefix ek ("out") and dapanaō ("to spend"), it carries a stronger intensity than its base form, suggesting that resources are not just used but fully poured out until nothing remains.
In Scripture, this word appears only once, in Second Corinthians 12:15. Here, Paul uses it to describe his willingness to "spend himself" for the benefit of the Corinthian believers. The context highlights a self-giving love that goes beyond ordinary generosity; it is a total commitment where the giver’s own energy or resources are exhausted in the process.
Translators typically render this as "spend" or "lay out," but the Greek nuance emphasizes the cost to the giver. It is not merely a transaction but a sacrificial act. The word captures the depth of Paul’s pastoral care, showing that true service often involves giving until one has nothing left to give.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word ekdapanaō describes a spending that leaves nothing behind. Paul uses it in Second Corinthians to show his total commitment to the believers there. He was willing to give until he had no strength or resources left. This is not ordinary generosity but a complete pouring out of self for others.
When we serve those around us, this kind of love can be exhausting. It reminds us that true care often costs us something deep inside. Paul’s example shows that giving fully is possible because it flows from a heart that trusts God more than its own limits. We are invited to consider how we might pour out our time and energy for the good of others.
This willingness to be spent reflects the love of Christ, who gave everything for us. It encourages us to serve without keeping score, knowing that our efforts are seen and valued by God. May we find joy in giving ourselves away for the sake of those we love.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- I will be utterly spent1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐκδαπανηθήσομαι1×
Key Verses
-
II Corinthians 12:15
I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls. If I love you more abundantly, am I loved the less?
This verse uniquely captures Paul’s willingness to exhaust his own resources and energy completely for the spiritual benefit of the Corinthian church.