σεαυτοῦ

of yourself

Definition

σεαυτοῦ is a reflexive pronoun meaning 'of yourself' or 'yourself' in the singular, masculine or neuter form. It is used to direct an action or statement back upon the subject of the clause, emphasizing self-reference or self-involvement. In commands like 'love your neighbor as yourself' (Matthew 22:39, Mark 12:31), it establishes the standard for love. In other contexts, it can imply self-examination or self-care, as when Jesus tells a healed leper to show himself to the priest (Mark 1:44).

Biblical Usage

This word appears 39 times in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels and Acts, and is often used in direct commands or exhortations. It frequently occurs in teachings of Jesus about the law and personal conduct (e.g., Matthew 19:19, 22:39). It is also used in challenges or temptations directed at Jesus, as when Satan says 'throw yourself down' (Matthew 4:6) or mockers say 'save yourself' (Matthew 27:40, Mark 15:30). The usage consistently personalizes the instruction or action to the individual addressed.

Etymology

σεαυτοῦ is a compound reflexive pronoun formed from the second person singular pronoun σέ (se, 'you') and the reflexive pronoun αὐτοῦ (autoy, 'of himself'). It literally means 'of yourself.' It belongs to a set of reflexive forms (like ἐμαυτοῦ, 'of myself') used to indicate that the action of the verb refers back to the subject.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it underpins Jesus's teaching on the second greatest commandment: to 'love your neighbor as yourself' (Matthew 22:39). This establishes self-love not as selfishness, but as the God-given basis and measure for loving others. Understanding the reflexive force of σεαυτοῦ enriches reading by highlighting the call to personal application and responsibility in faith and ethics.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of the 'self' was often understood in relation to community and social duty. The command to 'love your neighbor as yourself' would resonate within a culture discussing reciprocal obligations, though Jesus's command radicalized it by making love for others equal to the natural care for one's own being. The reflexive pronoun's use in challenges (e.g., 'save yourself') taps into cultural expectations of self-preservation and honor, which Jesus subverts through his sacrificial mission.

ἑαυτοῦ (heautoy, G1438) — the more common reflexive pronoun meaning 'of himself/herself/itself/themselves,' used for all persons and numbers. σεαυτοῦ is specifically the second person singular form.

Word Details

Scripture References