δοκιμή

a trial, proof; tried, approved character

Definition

The Greek word δοκιμή (dokimē) primarily means 'proof' or 'tested character,' referring to the quality of something that has been examined and found genuine. In some contexts, it denotes the process of testing itself, as in the 'trial' of affliction that proves faith (2 Corinthians 8:2). More often, it signifies the positive result of such testing: an 'approved character' or 'proven worth,' such as the proven character that produces hope (Romans 5:4) or the proven reliability of a fellow worker (Philippians 2:22). It can also refer to the 'evidence' or 'demonstration' of something, like the proof of obedience in others (2 Corinthians 2:9).

Biblical Usage

This noun is used six times in the New Testament, exclusively in the Pauline epistles. It appears in discussions of Christian character development, stewardship, and church relationships. In Romans 5:4, it describes the 'proven character' that results from endurance in suffering. In 2 Corinthians, it is used multiple times: for the 'proof' of obedience (2 Corinthians 2:9), the 'trial' of severe affliction and poverty that proved their generosity (2 Corinthians 8:2), the 'proof' of their service (2 Corinthians 9:13), and the 'proof' of Christ speaking in Paul (2 Corinthians 13:3). Finally, in Philippians 2:22, it refers to Timothy's 'proven worth' in gospel service.

Etymology

Derived from the verb δοκιμάζω (dokimazō, G1381), meaning 'to test, examine, or approve.' The root concept involves the process of assaying metals to determine purity and value. Thus, δοκιμή carries the sense of something that has passed through a testing process and been validated as genuine and reliable.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures the biblical theme of God refining His people through trials to produce proven, trustworthy character. It moves beyond mere suffering to the positive outcome God intends: a faith that is genuine and a life that demonstrates the reality of Christ. Understanding this term enriches reading by highlighting that trials in the Christian life are not pointless but are meant to produce a verified, resilient faith that serves as evidence of God's work (James 1:2-4). It connects to doctrines of sanctification, stewardship, and the validation of ministry.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, the concept of δοκιμή was closely tied to the testing of metals, coins, and commodities to verify their authenticity and worth. This cultural metaphor of assaying would have been immediately understood by readers, giving the term a concrete sense of passing a rigorous, objective standard. It implies a public, demonstrable proof of quality, not just a private feeling.

πειρασμός (peirasmos, G3986) — a temptation or trial, often with a negative connotation of enticement to sin, whereas δοκιμή focuses on the proving process or its positive result. δόκιμος (dokimos, G1384) — the adjective form meaning 'approved, tested, genuine,' describing the person or thing that has passed the δοκιμή.

Word Details

Scripture References