ὀκνέω (okneō)
okneō
to delay
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb okneō describes a state of hesitation or shrinking back from an action. It conveys more than simple delay; it implies a reluctance born of fear or uncertainty that slows down immediate response. In the New Testament, this word appears only once, in Acts 9:38, where disciples in Joppa send for Jesus because they are too afraid to act without Him.
This single usage highlights its theological weight. The root oknos suggests a physical shrinking or recoil, indicating that the hesitation is not merely intellectual but emotional. Translators often render it as "hesitate" or "be slow," capturing the tension between the need to act and the fear that holds people back.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we face difficult decisions or urgent needs, it is natural to feel a pull between action and fear. The word okneō captures this hesitation, describing a shrinking back that slows our response not just from laziness, but from uncertainty. It reminds us that our reluctance is often emotional rather than purely intellectual, revealing the weight of the moment before us.
In Acts 9:38, the disciples in Joppa sent for Peter because they needed his presence to overcome their own hesitation. They did not want him to delay coming to them. This shows that seeking help from others is a wise and honest response when we feel unable to act alone. We do not have to carry every burden by ourselves.
God understands our fears and the times when we pause before moving forward. He meets us in those moments of hesitation with patience and grace. You can bring your uncertainties to Him, knowing that He invites you to trust His guidance even when the path feels unclear or daunting.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- you may delay1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ὀκνήσῃς1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 9:38
As Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him, imploring him not to delay in coming to them.
This verse shows the disciples actively asking Peter not to delay, highlighting how their fear made them rely on his presence rather than acting alone.