τεκνογονέω (teknogoneō)
teknogoneō
to have children
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb teknogoneō means to beget or bear children, describing the physical act of bringing offspring into the world. It appears only once in the New Testament, in 1 Timothy 5:14, where Paul advises younger widows to marry and raise families.
Its construction combines teknon ("child") and gennao ("to generate or produce"), making its meaning quite literal. Unlike broader terms for family life, this word focuses specifically on the biological process of procreation. In its single biblical occurrence, it serves as a practical instruction for community order rather than a theological statement about marriage.
Translators typically render it simply as "have children" or "bear children." The word carries no metaphorical weight in this context; it points directly to the natural role of motherhood. This usage highlights the early church's view of family life as a normal and honorable part of Christian conduct for those not called to singleness.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word teknogoneō simply means to have children. It appears just once in Scripture, in Paul’s letter to Timothy. Here, he encourages younger widows to marry and start families as a normal part of Christian life. This is not a command for every believer, but a practical suggestion for those who are free to do so.
For many, this verse brings comfort. It shows that raising a family can be a faithful way to serve God. By caring for a home and nurturing children, you participate in the ordinary blessings of life. This is a holy path, distinct from other callings, yet fully valued by God.
Whether you are starting a family or walking a different road, your life has purpose. Paul’s words remind us that domestic life is not secondary to spiritual matters. It is a place where love and duty meet, offering a quiet witness to those around you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to bear children,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- τεκνογονεῖν,1×
Key Verses
-
I Timothy 5:14
I desire therefore that the younger widows marry, bear children, rule the household, and give no occasion to the adversary for insulting.
This verse uses the word to specifically advise younger widows that marrying and bearing children is a practical way to avoid idleness and honor their faith.