εἴκω

I give way, yield

Definition

The verb εἴκω means to yield, give way, or submit, often in the sense of conceding or withdrawing under pressure. In its single New Testament occurrence (Galatians 2:5), it carries the specific sense of not yielding or surrendering in the face of opposition, particularly regarding the truth of the gospel. While not used elsewhere in the New Testament, in broader Greek literature it could also imply retreating in battle or metaphorically giving place to someone in an argument. The core idea is one of voluntary or forced withdrawal from a position.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Galatians 2:5. Paul states that he and his companions did not 'yield in submission' (οὐδὲ εἴξαμεν τῇ ὑποταγῇ) to the false brothers who sought to compromise the gospel of grace by imposing circumcision. The usage is decisively negative—describing what Paul refused to do in order to protect the essential truth of Christian liberty. It appears in a polemical, doctrinal context concerning authority and truth.

Etymology

The verb εἴκω is a primary Greek verb meaning 'to yield' or 'to give way.' It is related to the noun εἰκών (eikōn, G1504), meaning 'image' or 'likeness,' through the shared root idea of 'that which corresponds or gives way to' a pattern. The semantic development connects yielding to the concept of being a faithful representation or counterpart.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant because it appears in a crucial debate over the nature of the gospel. Paul's refusal to 'yield' (Galatians 2:5) underscores the non-negotiable core of justification by faith apart from works of the law. Understanding this strong Greek term highlights the apostolic resolve to defend doctrinal truth against compromise. It models a principle of steadfastness in essential matters of faith.

In ancient Greek culture, the word was often used in military or rhetorical contexts, describing an army giving ground or a debater conceding a point. For Paul's original readers, his statement would have conveyed a strong image of standing firm against social and religious pressure to conform. The refusal to yield was a public, courageous act of defiance against powerful group expectations.

ὑποτάσσω (hypotassō, G5293) — to subject or subordinate oneself, often in orderly arrangement; πείθω (peithō, G3982) — to persuade or be persuaded, focusing on conviction rather than forced concession.

Word Details

Scripture References