κυριεύω (kurieuō)
kurieuō
to lord over
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 7 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb kurieuo means to exercise lordship or rule over something. It describes the act of having dominion or power, often implying a position of authority where one’s will is decisive. In the New Testament, it appears in contexts ranging from political leadership to spiritual forces, consistently pointing to the active control or influence exerted by a master.
A key distinction emerges when comparing its use in Luke 22:25 with Paul’s teaching in 2 Corinthians 1:24. Jesus contrasts the Gentile model of "lording it over" others with the servant leadership expected of his followers, highlighting that such dominance is not the Christian standard. Conversely, Paul warns against using authority to dominate faith, emphasizing that believers are called to cooperate with joy, not to rule over it.
The word also appears metaphorically in Romans to describe how sin and death once held power over humanity. Romans 6:9 states that death no longer has lordship over Christ after his resurrection, while Romans 6:14 declares that sin shall not have dominion over believers. These uses underscore a theological shift: where these forces once ruled, they now lose their grip through redemption.
Etymologically, the term derives from kurios, meaning "lord" or "master." This root connects it to concepts of ownership and sovereignty. Translators often render it as "rule," "have dominion," or "lord over," depending on context. Its presence in seven verses reflects its importance in discussing power dynamics within both human relationships and spiritual realities.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word kurieuō describes a heavy kind of authority—one that exerts control and demands submission. In Luke 22:25, Jesus points out how worldly leaders 'lord it over' their subjects. This is not the pattern for those who follow him. Instead of dominating others, we are called to serve. True leadership in the kingdom looks like support, not suppression.
Paul uses this same word in 2 Corinthians 1:24 to clarify his own role. He does not seek to control the faith of believers. Rather, he works alongside them so they may stand firm and rejoice. This shifts our view of power from force to fellowship. We are invited to trust that Christ holds ultimate authority, freeing us to lead with gentleness.
When we understand this distinction, we find relief. We do not need to carry the burden of controlling every outcome or person around us. Jesus has already overcome death and sin. His lordship is secure, so we can rest in his grace and extend that same grace to others without fear or force.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- will rule over;1×
- we lord it over1×
- rules.1×
- rules1×
- rule over1×
- being lords,1×
- He may rule.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- κυριεύσῃ.1×
- κυριεύσει·1×
- κυριεύουσιν1×
- κυριεύομεν1×
- κυριεύει.1×
- κυριεύει1×
- κυριευόντων,1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 22:25
He said to them, “The kings of the nations lord it over them, and those who have authority over them are called ‘benefactors.’
Jesus uses this term to define the worldly model of power that his followers are explicitly called to reject.
-
II Corinthians 1:24
We don’t control your faith, but are fellow workers with you for your joy. For you stand firm in faith.
Paul negates the use of this authority over faith, redefining leadership as cooperative work for joy rather than control.
-
Romans 6:9
knowing that Christ, being raised from the dead, dies no more. Death no longer has dominion over him!
The resurrection breaks the cycle of death's dominion, showing that Christ’s lordship is life-giving rather than destructive.