ἑκούσιος (hekousios)
hekousios
voluntary
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective hekousios describes something done willingly or voluntarily, carrying a sense of free choice rather than external compulsion. In the New Testament, it appears only once in Philemon 14, where Paul writes that he wanted to do nothing without his brother’s consent. This specific usage highlights a respect for personal agency; Paul chose not to act unilaterally, even though he had the authority to command obedience.
The word is derived from roots related to being willing or desiring, and its meaning aligns closely with acting out of genuine goodwill. The sources note that in the Greek Old Testament, this term is frequently used to translate the Hebrew word nedabah, which refers to a freewill offering. This connection suggests that hekousios carries a spiritual weight, implying actions that are not just permitted but offered freely and gladly.
Translators typically render this word as "voluntary" or "without consent," depending on the context of the sentence. In Philemon, it underscores the relational dynamic between Paul and Philemon, where mutual agreement is valued over strict hierarchy. The term reminds readers that Christian fellowship often relies on willing cooperation rather than enforced duty.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word hekousios points to actions taken from a willing heart rather than under pressure. In Philemon 1:14, Paul chooses not to command his brother but to ask for consent. This approach respects the other person’s freedom and dignity. True Christian love never forces compliance; it invites cooperation.
When we serve others voluntarily, our actions carry genuine weight. They reflect a heart that desires to please God and neighbor out of gratitude, not fear. This kind of willing service builds trust and strengthens relationships within the church community.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- willingness.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἑκούσιον.1×
Key Verses
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Philemon 1:14
But I was willing to do nothing without your consent, that your goodness would not be as of necessity, but of free will.
Paul uses this term to show he values Philemon's free choice over exercising his apostolic authority, ensuring any help given is a gift of love rather than an obligation.