### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kataxióō**, represented by `{{G2661}}`, means **to deem entirely deserving** or to **(ac-)count worthy**. It is a specific term that appears **4 times** in **4 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently pointing to a divine declaration of worthiness based on one's standing or endurance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2661}}` is connected to significant spiritual outcomes. Believers are instructed to watch and pray to be **accounted worthy** to escape future tribulations and stand before the Son of man [[Luke 21:36]]. This same worthiness is paradoxically linked to suffering; the apostles departed from the council **rejoicing** that they were **counted worthy** to suffer shame for His name [[Acts 5:41]]. Similarly, enduring affliction is described as a "manifest token of the righteous judgment of God," so that believers may be **counted worthy** of His kingdom [[2 Thessalonians 1:5]]. The term also applies to the resurrection, identifying those who shall be **accounted worthy** to obtain the world to come [[Luke 20:35]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which one is deemed worthy:
* `{{G3958}}` **páschō** (to experience a sensation or impression (usually painful):--feel, passion, suffer, vex): This word is directly linked to `{{G2661}}`, as believers are "counted worthy" of the kingdom for which they **suffer** [[2 Thessalonians 1:5]], and rejoice when counted worthy to **suffer** shame for His name [[Acts 5:41]].
* `{{G5177}}` **tynchánō** (to attain or secure an object or end): This highlights the reward of worthiness. Those accounted worthy are able to **obtain** the world to come and the resurrection from the dead [[Luke 20:35]].
* `{{G2476}}` **hístēmi** (to stand): This term describes the ultimate result for the faithful, who are accounted worthy to **stand** before the Son of man [[Luke 21:36]], indicating a position of acceptance and vindication.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2661}}` centers on divine assessment and future hope.
* **Worthiness and Suffering:** The term establishes a profound connection between being counted worthy by God and the experience of suffering for His name. This is presented not as a burden but as a reason to rejoice and a sign of God's righteous judgment ([[Acts 5:41]], [[2 Thessalonians 1:5]]).
* **Eschatological Vindication:** Being "accounted worthy" is consistently tied to future, eschatological events. It is the prerequisite for escaping judgment, obtaining the world to come, and being able to stand in the presence of the Son of man ([[Luke 21:36]], [[Luke 20:35]]).
* **A Divine Declaration:** The word emphasizes that this worthiness is not an inherent human achievement but a status conferred by God. It is His judgment that "counts" a person worthy, whether for the kingdom or for the honor of suffering for it [[2 Thessalonians 1:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2661}}` is a potent term that defines a state of being deemed deserving by God. It is not a status earned by merit but one that is associated with faithfulness demonstrated through watching, praying, and enduring suffering. The word connects present trials to a future glorious reality, where the faithful are counted worthy to escape judgment, obtain the resurrection, and stand approved before God.
TRV