ἔξω (exō)
exō
out/outside(r)
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 64 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek adverb exō simply means "outside" or "out." It marks a clear boundary between what is within a space and what lies beyond it. In the New Testament, this word appears frequently to describe physical locations, such as when Jesus’ family waited outside his home (Mark 3:31) or when Peter denied him while standing in the courtyard (John 18:16). It also functions as a preposition meaning "out of," as seen when Lazarus was called forth from the tomb (John 11:43).
Beyond physical space, exō carries a significant metaphorical weight. It distinguishes those who belong to the community of believers from those who do not. Paul uses this distinction when instructing the church to judge those inside while leaving judgment of those outside to God (1 Corinthians 5:12-13). Similarly, believers are urged to conduct themselves wisely toward "those outside" (Colossians 4:5), highlighting a social and spiritual divide.
The word derives from the preposition ek, meaning "out of," reinforcing the idea of movement or position relative to an interior. This root connection emphasizes that being "outside" is not merely a static location but often implies separation from a source or center. Translators typically render exō as "outside," "out," or "without," depending on whether the context describes physical distance or spiritual exclusion.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word exō marks a clear boundary between what is inside and what lies beyond. In the New Testament, it often describes physical locations, such as when Jesus’ family waited outside his home or when Peter stood in the courtyard before denying him. These moments show that being outside is not just about geography; it can also signal separation from a center of life or truth.
Yet this word carries hope too. When Lazarus was called out of the tomb, exō described movement from death into life. Similarly, Christians are invited to live wisely toward those outside the community, sharing grace with neighbors who may not yet know Jesus. The boundary is real, but it is also an invitation for connection.
Whether you find yourself inside a gathering or standing on the margins, this word reminds us that God meets people in both places. He draws near to those seeking Him, even when they are far from the center. Your position does not limit His reach; it simply shows where He is working right now.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 64 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- outside32×
- out16×
- out of5×
- out,4×
- out.2×
- outward1×
- outside.1×
- outside of1×
- forth.1×
- foreign1×
- Outside [are]1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἔξω56×
- ἔξω.4×
- ἔξω,4×
- Ἔξω1×
Key Verses
-
Mark 4:11
He said to them, “To you is given the mystery of God’s Kingdom, but to those who are outside, all things are done in parables,
This verse uses exō to distinguish between those who receive spiritual insight and those who remain outside the mystery of God's Kingdom through parables.
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Luke 13:25
When once the master of the house has risen up and has shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ then he will answer and tell you, ‘I don’t know you or where you come from.’
Here exō describes a state of exclusion where people stand outside a closed door, highlighting the seriousness of missed opportunities for relationship with Christ.
-
Matthew 12:46
While he was yet speaking to the multitudes, behold, his mother and his brothers stood outside, seeking to speak to him.
The physical location of Jesus' family standing outside underscores the tension between natural ties and spiritual obedience in this moment.
-
Luke 13:28
There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth when you see Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the prophets in God’s Kingdom, and yourselves being thrown outside.
This warning uses exō to depict the sorrow of those who see the Kingdom but find themselves thrown outside, separated from the feast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Greek word exō mean?
How is exō different from ek?
Why does Mark 4:11 mention those who are outside?
Every Occurrence (64 verses across 12 books)
Matthew 9 verses
“You are the salt of the earth, but if the salt has lost its flavor, with what will it be salted? It is then good for…
Matthew 10:14Whoever doesn’t receive you or hear your words, as you go out of that house or that city, shake the dust off your feet.
Matthew 12:46While he was yet speaking to the multitudes, behold, his mother and his brothers stood outside, seeking to speak to him.
Matthew 12:47One said to him, “Behold, your mother and your brothers stand outside, seeking to speak to you.”
Matthew 13:48which, when it was filled, fishermen drew up on the beach. They sat down and gathered the good into containers, but the…
Matthew 21:17He left them and went out of the city to Bethany, and camped there.
Matthew 21:39So they took him and threw him out of the vineyard, then killed him.
Matthew 26:69Now Peter was sitting outside in the court, and a maid came to him, saying, “You were also with Jesus, the Galilean!”
Matthew 26:75Peter remembered the word which Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times.” Then…