δοκιμάζω

I put to the test, prove, examine

Definition

δοκιμάζω means to test, examine, or prove something to determine its genuineness, value, or fitness. In the New Testament, it often refers to testing spiritual matters, such as discerning God's will (Romans 12:2) or examining oneself before communion (1 Corinthians 11:28). It can also mean to approve or deem worthy after a successful test, as when God's righteous judgment is recognized (Romans 1:28). In some contexts, it carries the sense of trying or attempting something, like in Luke 14:19 where a man makes an excuse to 'try' a field.

Biblical Usage

This verb appears 21 times, primarily in the Pauline epistles and Luke's writings. Paul uses it for ethical and spiritual testing, urging believers to 'test and approve' God's will (Romans 12:2) and to examine their own actions (Galatians 6:4). In 1 Corinthians, it's applied to testing prophecies (1 Thessalonians 5:21) and evaluating one's spiritual condition. Luke employs it more generally for testing or trying, as in testing the spirits (1 John 4:1) or examining the weather signs (Luke 12:56).

Etymology

Derived from the root δόκιμος (dokimos), meaning 'approved' or 'tested,' often in the context of metals that have been assayed. The verb form implies the process leading to that state of approval. Cognates include δοκιμή (dokimē, 'proof' or 'test') and δοκίμιον (dokimion, 'testing'). The semantic range developed from a physical testing (like assaying metals) to metaphorical and spiritual examination.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it underscores the biblical theme of discernment and spiritual maturity. It relates to the process of sanctification, where believers are called to actively test and approve God's will, moving beyond superficial obedience to a transformed mind (Romans 12:2). Understanding δοκιμάζω enriches reading by highlighting that faith involves rigorous, thoughtful examination—not blind acceptance—and that God approves what is genuine through testing, as seen in the refining of faith (1 Peter 1:7).

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, δοκιμάζω was commonly used in contexts of assaying metals to determine purity and value, a process familiar in commerce and craftsmanship. This background informs its biblical usage, where spiritual testing is likened to refining precious metal. The cultural expectation of proving something's worth before approval contrasts with modern tendencies toward immediate acceptance, emphasizing the biblical call for deliberate discernment.

πειράζω (peirazō, G3985) — to test with a focus on temptation or trial, often with a negative connotation. ἀνακρίνω (anakrinō, G350) — to examine or question judicially, often in a legal or investigative sense. ἐξετάζω (exetazō, G1833) — to search out or inquire thoroughly, sometimes used for close scrutiny.

Word Details

Scripture References