σταυρόω (stauroō)
stauroō
to crucify
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 42 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb stauroō describes the act of crucifying, derived from the noun for the wooden stake or cross. While its earliest recorded usage in classical Greek referred to fencing an area with pales, by the New Testament era it carried the specific, grim meaning of execution by impalement on a cross. The sources note that this literal sense appears frequently in the Gospels, such as when Pilate orders Jesus to be crucified (Matthew 27:26) or when the soldiers divide his garments (John 19:23).
Beyond its historical weight, the word carries significant theological force through metaphorical usage. Paul employs it to describe the decisive breaking of sinful nature, as in Galatians 5:24 where believers are said to have "crucified" their flesh. This figurative application suggests a total destruction of power rather than simple suppression, implying that the old self is put to death alongside Christ. Translators consistently render it as "crucify," preserving the stark reality of the original term.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word stauroō carries the heavy weight of Roman execution, yet it points to a profound shift in how we understand suffering and victory. When Jesus was handed over to be crucified, as recorded in Matthew 27:26, it was not merely a historical tragedy but the moment where love absorbed the full force of human cruelty. This act broke the power of sin, offering a way for believers to find freedom from their own destructive habits.
Paul reminds us in Galatians that we have crucified our flesh with its passions and desires. This means the old patterns of selfishness are no longer in charge. Instead of fighting daily battles against our worst impulses, we rest in the finished work of Christ. His death on the cross was decisive, removing the guilt that once held us back.
This truth offers deep comfort when you feel overwhelmed by failure or shame. You do not need to earn your standing through perfect behavior. The cross stands as a permanent reminder that you are loved and accepted. Let this assurance anchor your heart in peace.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 42 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- do crucify7×
- they crucified4×
- crucified3×
- He may be crucified.3×
- was crucified2×
- he should be crucified.2×
- having crucified2×
- crucified.2×
- crucified,2×
- He was crucified2×
- will crucify1×
- was crucified.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐσταύρωσαν6×
- σταύρωσον5×
- ἐσταυρώθη4×
- σταύρου2×
- σταυρωθῇ.¶2×
- σταυροῦσιν2×
- ἐσταύρωται1×
- ἐσταύρωσαν,1×
- ἐσταυρώσατε.¶1×
- ἐσταυρώσατε,1×
- ἐσταυρώθη.1×
- ἐσταυρωμένος;1×
Key Verses
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Matthew 27:26
Then he released Barabbas to them, but Jesus he flogged and delivered to be crucified.
This verse captures the pivotal moment where Pilate delivers Jesus to be crucified, fulfilling the prophecy of suffering and establishing the cost of redemption.
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John 19:10
Pilate therefore said to him, “Aren’t you speaking to me? Don’t you know that I have power to release you and have power to crucify you?”
Pilate’s question highlights the irony that true power lies not in political authority but in the willingness to suffer for others.
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Luke 23:33
When they came to the place that is called “The Skull”, they crucified him there with the criminals, one on the right and the other on the left.
The crucifixion at 'The Skull' alongside criminals emphasizes Jesus’ identification with humanity in its lowest state of shame and pain.
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Mark 15:24
Crucifying him, they parted his garments among them, casting lots on them, what each should take.
The soldiers dividing his garments fulfills Old Testament prophecy, showing that even the humiliation of execution was part of God’s sovereign plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does stauroō mean in the New Testament?
How is stauroō different from other words for suffering?
Where does this word appear most frequently?
Every Occurrence (42 verses across 9 books)
Matthew 10 verses
and will hand him over to the Gentiles to mock, to scourge, and to crucify; and the third day he will be raised up.”
Matthew 23:34Therefore, behold, I send to you prophets, wise men, and scribes. Some of them you will kill and crucify; and some of…
Matthew 26:2“You know that after two days the Passover is coming, and the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified.”
Matthew 27:22Pilate said to them, “What then shall I do to Jesus who is called Christ?” They all said to him, “Let him be crucified!”
Matthew 27:23But the governor said, “Why? What evil has he done?” But they cried out exceedingly, saying, “Let him be crucified!”
Matthew 27:26Then he released Barabbas to them, but Jesus he flogged and delivered to be crucified.
Matthew 27:31When they had mocked him, they took the robe off him, and put his clothes on him, and led him away to crucify him.
Matthew 27:35When they had crucified him, they divided his clothing among them, casting lots,
Matthew 27:38Then there were two robbers crucified with him, one on his right hand and one on the left.
Matthew 28:5The angel answered the women, “Don’t be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus, who has been crucified.