σκοπέω (skopeō)
skopeō
to watch out
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 6 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb skopeō means to look at something with focused attention, often carrying the sense of watching out or taking heed. Derived from a word for a watchman or lookout post, it suggests more than casual observation; it implies directing one’s gaze intentionally toward a specific object or person.
In the New Testament, this command appears in contexts requiring careful spiritual discernment. Paul urges believers to consider others as more important than themselves (Philippians 2:4) and to pay close attention to those who lead well (Philippians 3:17). Similarly, Jesus warns against letting the light within you become darkness by paying attention to what you focus on (Luke 11:35).
Unlike verbs that simply mean to see or behold, skopeō emphasizes the act of fixing one’s eyes upon something with purpose. It is a call to deliberate observation, whether regarding moral conduct, community leadership, or personal priorities. Translators often render it as "consider," "watch out," or "pay attention," reflecting its active, vigilant nature.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word skopeō invites us to look with intention. It is not about casual glancing but fixing our attention on what truly matters. In a life filled with distractions, this verb calls us to pause and direct our gaze toward God’s priorities rather than fleeting circumstances.
When Paul urges believers to consider others as more important than themselves in Philippians 2:4, he uses this same concept of focused observation. It challenges us to shift our eyes from our own needs to the needs of those around us. This deliberate attention fosters humility and strengthens our communities.
Ultimately, skopeō reminds us that what we choose to watch shapes our inner life. By fixing our eyes on eternal truths rather than temporary problems, we find stability and hope in Christ.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 6 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- considering2×
- to watch out for1×
- do take heed1×
- do observe1×
- are looking at1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- σκόπει1×
- σκοπῶν1×
- σκοποῦντες1×
- σκοπούντων1×
- σκοπεῖτε1×
- σκοπεῖν1×
Key Verses
-
Philippians 2:4
each of you not just looking to his own things, but each of you also to the things of others.
This verse uses the word to command believers to actively direct their attention toward the needs of others, prioritizing community over self-interest.
-
II Corinthians 4:18
while we don’t look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
Here the term contrasts temporary visible realities with eternal unseen truths, urging a sustained focus on spiritual permanence rather than immediate circumstances.
-
Luke 11:35
Therefore see whether the light that is in you isn’t darkness.
Jesus uses this word to warn against allowing inner spiritual light to become darkness by paying close attention to what we allow into our hearts.