ἐκδοχή (ekdochē)
ekdochē
expectation
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun ekdochē carries the sense of looking forward to something with anticipation. In the New Testament, it is used as a synonym for closer terms like prosochō, meaning expectation or waiting. This usage appears only once in Scripture, in Hebrews 10:27.
In that specific context, the word describes the fearful expectation of judgment. The author contrasts the hope held by believers with the dread anticipated by those who reject God. Here, ekdochē points not to a hopeful waiting, but to a sober recognition of what is coming.
Though rare in biblical Greek, the term highlights how Scripture uses language of expectation for both positive hope and negative dread. Its single occurrence underscores the seriousness of the warning in Hebrews about divine judgment.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word ekdochē appears just once in the New Testament, found in Hebrews 10:27. It describes a specific kind of expectation—one filled with dread rather than hope. The author uses it to warn those who turn away from God about the coming judgment. This is not the joyful waiting we associate with Christ’s return, but a sober recognition of consequences.
For believers, this verse serves as a stark contrast. While some face a fearful expectation, Christians are called to hold onto hope and confidence in God’s promises. The passage reminds us that our standing before God matters deeply. It invites us to examine our own hearts and ensure we are resting in faith, not drifting away.
Though the term is rare, its meaning is clear. Expectation can be a heavy burden when it points toward judgment. Yet for those who trust in Jesus, the future holds a different kind of hope. We look forward to His return with peace, knowing we are covered by His grace and not left to face fear alone.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- expectation1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐκδοχὴ1×
Key Verses
-
Hebrews 10:27
but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and a fierceness of fire which will devour the adversaries.
This verse uses ekdochē to describe the dread of judgment awaiting those who reject God, contrasting sharply with the hope believers possess.