χρῄζω (chrēzō)
chrēzō
to need
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb chrēzō simply means to need or be in want of something. It describes a state of lacking what is necessary, whether that lack involves material goods or personal assistance. In the New Testament, this word appears five times, primarily in the Gospels and Paul’s letters, marking moments where human limitation meets divine provision.
Its usage often highlights dependence on God rather than self-sufficiency. Jesus employs it when discussing daily necessities like food and clothing, reminding listeners that these needs are known to the Father (Matthew 6:32). Similarly, in Luke, it underscores the urgency of asking for help, as seen in the parable of the friend at midnight who needs bread (Luke 11:8). Paul also uses it to describe his own physical weakness and need for support (2 Corinthians 3:1).
The word carries a straightforward, unadorned weight. It does not imply luxury or desire but essential requirement. By using chrēzō, the biblical authors frame human life as inherently dependent. This simple term grounds spiritual teaching in the reality of daily need, pointing readers toward reliance on God’s care rather than their own resources.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word chrēzō reminds us that needing help is not a sign of failure, but a fundamental part of being human. It describes a basic lack of what is necessary for life, whether that is food, clothing, or support. When Jesus used this term in Matthew 6:32, He pointed out that our heavenly Father already knows these needs before we even ask. This knowledge is meant to bring comfort rather than anxiety.
In our daily lives, this word invites us to drop the mask of self-sufficiency. We often feel pressure to have everything under control, but chrēzō shows that dependence on God is the natural state of faith. Whether you are facing a physical shortage or simply feeling overwhelmed, acknowledging your need opens the door for His provision.
This simple term grounds our spiritual life in reality. It does not deal with luxury or extra desires, but with essential requirements. By recognizing what we truly need, we can rest in the assurance that God cares for the details of our lives and provides exactly what is necessary for each day.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- you need1×
- you have need1×
- we need1×
- she may need1×
- he needs.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- χρῄζετε2×
- χρῄζῃ1×
- χρῄζομεν1×
- χρῄζει.1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 6:32
For the Gentiles seek after all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.
Jesus uses this word to assure believers that their heavenly Father is already aware of their essential needs, shifting focus from anxiety to trust.
-
Luke 11:8
I tell you, although he will not rise and give it to him because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence, he will get up and give him as many as he needs.
In the parable of the friend at midnight, the word highlights the urgency of asking for help when one is in a state of genuine lack.
-
II Corinthians 3:1
Are we beginning again to commend ourselves? Or do we need, as do some, letters of commendation to you or from you?
Paul contrasts his ministry with those who rely on external credentials, implying that true apostolic authority does not need such human validation.