κυριεύω

I have authority, rule over

Definition

The verb κυριεύω means to exercise authority, rule over, or have dominion over someone or something. It describes a position of lordship or mastery, often implying legitimate or established control. In Romans 6:9 and 6:14, it specifically denotes death's power or sin's dominion over a person, while in Romans 14:9 and 1 Timothy 6:15, it refers to Christ's sovereign lordship over both the living and the dead. In Luke 22:25, it critiques the oppressive rule of Gentile leaders, contrasting it with Christian service.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used seven times in the New Testament, primarily in Paul's letters (Romans, 2 Corinthians, 1 Timothy) and once in Luke's Gospel. It appears in discussions of spiritual authority and lordship. In Romans, it highlights the transfer of dominion from sin to grace (Romans 6:9, 6:14) and discusses the law's authority over a person (Romans 7:1). Paul also uses it to deny any 'lordly' authority over believers' faith (2 Corinthians 1:24), emphasizing servant leadership.

Etymology

Derived from the noun κύριος (kyrios, G2962), meaning 'lord' or 'master.' The verb form κυριεύω literally means 'to act as κύριος,' thus 'to lord it over' or 'exercise lordship.' It is related to the concept of κύριος, which in the Septuagint often translates the Hebrew divine name Yahweh, enriching its potential theological weight when applied to God or Christ.

Semantic Range

This word is crucial for understanding the biblical theme of dominion and lordship. It clarifies the transfer of authority in salvation: believers are freed from the lordship of sin and death (Romans 6:9, 14) and brought under the gracious lordship of Christ (Romans 14:9). It underscores Christ's ultimate sovereignty (1 Timothy 6:15) and critiques worldly models of authority (Luke 22:25), defining true spiritual leadership as service, not domination.

In the Greco-Roman world, κυριεύω conveyed the authority of a master over slaves, a ruler over subjects, or a conqueror over the vanquished. This background informs its use in Luke 22:25, where Jesus contrasts the 'lording over' typical of Gentile kings with the servant model he commands. Understanding this cultural context of hierarchical power highlights the radical nature of Christian leadership and Christ's unique, life-giving lordship.

κυριεύω (kyrieuō, G2961) — to exercise authority or rule over. ἄρχω (archō, G757) — to rule, lead, or begin, often with a focus on the initiation or office of rule. βασιλεύω (basileuō, G936) — to reign as king, emphasizing royal sovereignty. κατακυριεύω (katakyrieuō, G2634) — to exercise dominion over, often with a negative connotation of subduing or lording it over oppressively.

Word Details

Scripture References