### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb κοπιάω (kopiáō, `{{G2872}}`) is derived from κόπος (kopos, `{{G2873}}`), which primarily signifies "a striking, a beating," and by extension, "toil, trouble, weariness." The core meaning of κοπιάω itself is "to feel fatigue" or "to become weary" or "exhausted." This weariness is not merely a state but is typically the direct consequence of strenuous effort.
By implication, κοπιάω extends to describe the act of "working hard," "toiling strenuously," or "laboring intensely." The emphasis is not simply on the activity performed, but on the significant exertion required and the resultant state of being worn out. It describes work that is demanding, exhaustive, and often difficult, leading to a profound sense of weariness. It can denote both the process of laboring *until* one is weary and the state of being weary *from* labor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term κοπιάω appears frequently in the New Testament, providing rich contextual insights into its usage:
* **Physical Exertion:** In its most literal sense, κοπιάω describes intense physical effort. For instance, Peter's declaration to Jesus, "Master, we toiled all night and took nothing!" [[Luke 5:5]], vividly portrays the exhausting and fruitless labor of the fishermen. Similarly, the disciples are described as "toiling in rowing" against the wind on the Sea of Galilee [[Mark 6:48]], emphasizing the immense physical struggle. Jesus Himself is depicted as "wearied from His journey" [[John 4:6]], a poignant reminder of His full humanity and shared experience of physical fatigue.
* **Ministerial Labor:** Most significantly, κοπιάω is a prominent term used by the Apostle Paul to characterize the arduous and tireless work of ministry and evangelism. He frequently applies it to his own apostolic efforts:
* "But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I toiled more than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me." [[1 Corinthians 15:10]]. This verse powerfully illustrates the intensity of his labor, while simultaneously attributing its effectiveness to divine grace.
* He encourages believers with the assurance that "your toil is not in vain in the Lord" [[1 Corinthians 15:58]], highlighting the purposeful and eternally significant nature of diligent service.
* Paul also commends others who have "toiled much" in the Lord, such as Mary [[Romans 16:6]] and Tryphaena and Tryphosa [[Romans 16:12]], acknowledging their strenuous and dedicated contributions to the Gospel.
* Elders who "labor in the word and doctrine" [[1 Timothy 5:17]] are deemed worthy of double honor, underscoring the demanding nature of spiritual leadership and teaching.
* **Spiritual Burden and Weariness:** In a broader sense, κοπιάω can refer to a state of spiritual or emotional burden that leads to exhaustion. Jesus' invitation, "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" [[Matthew 11:28]], uses κοπιάω to describe those burdened by the demands of the Law, the struggles of life, or spiritual oppression, seeking profound relief and refreshment.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **κόπος (kopos, `{{G2873}}`):** This is the noun form from which κοπιάω is derived, meaning "toil," "trouble," "labor," or "weariness." It often describes the *result* or *effect* of κοπιάω, as seen in Paul's reference to "much toil and hardship" [[2 Corinthians 11:27]].
* **ἐργάζομαι (ergazomai, `{{G2038}}`):** Meaning "to work" or "to perform a task," ἐργάζομαι describes activity in a general sense. κοπιάω is a more specific term, emphasizing the *strenuousness* and *fatigue* involved in the work, whereas one can ἐργάζομαι without necessarily κοπιάω.
* **μοχθέω (mochtheō, `{{G3421}}`):** This term is closely related and often paired with κοπιάω in Paul's writings (e.g., [[2 Thessalonians 3:8]]). μοχθέω signifies "to toil with pain and difficulty," often implying physical hardship and struggle. While κοπιάω focuses on the resulting weariness, μοχθέω highlights the arduous and often distressing nature of the effort itself.
* **πόνος (ponos, `{{G4192}}`):** This noun means "toil," "labor," "pain," or "distress." It often describes the painful effort or suffering inherent in work.
* **ὑπομονή (hypomonē, `{{G5281}}`):** Meaning "endurance" or "patient perseverance," ὑπομονή is a crucial concept often linked to κοπιάω. The ability to κοπιάω faithfully in ministry or through suffering necessitates ὑπομονή.
### Theological Significance
The theological implications of κοπιάω are deeply significant for Christian life and ministry:
* **The Cost of Discipleship:** The pervasive use of κοπιάω in relation to Christian service underscores that authentic discipleship and ministry are not superficial or effortless. They often demand significant personal sacrifice, sustained effort, and can lead to physical, emotional, or spiritual exhaustion. This aligns with Jesus' call to "take up his cross" [[Matthew 16:24]].
* **Divine Empowerment for Service:** Despite the inherent weariness implied by κοπιάω, the New Testament consistently couples human effort with divine enablement. Paul's declaration in [[1 Corinthians 15:10]], "I toiled more than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me," is foundational. It teaches that while believers are called to diligent labor, the power to sustain such strenuous effort and ensure its fruitfulness comes supernaturally from God. It is a partnership where human diligence is divinely empowered.
* **The Value of Labor in the Lord:** The assurance that "your toil is not in vain in the Lord" [[1 Corinthians 15:58]] elevates κοπιάω from mere drudgery to purposeful, eternally significant work. It highlights God's recognition, affirmation, and ultimate reward for faithful, strenuous service. This truth provides profound motivation and comfort for those who bear the weight of their labor for Christ.
* **Christ's Compassion and Rest:** Jesus' tender invitation in [[Matthew 11:28]] demonstrates His profound empathy for those who are κοπιάω (weary from toil and heavy laden). He offers "rest," not as an cessation of all activity, but as a spiritual refreshment, a relief from oppressive burdens, and a renewed capacity for Spirit-empowered service. This speaks to the restorative power of communion with Christ.
### Summary
κοπιάω (kopiáō, `{{G2872}}`) is a robust Greek verb that encapsulates the concepts of "to feel fatigue" and "to work hard" or "to toil strenuously." It conveys a deep sense of exhaustive effort, whether physical, mental, or spiritual. In the New Testament, κοπιάω powerfully illustrates the demanding, often arduous nature of Christian discipleship and ministry, emphasizing the significant personal cost involved in serving God and others. Crucially, however, it is consistently presented within a framework of divine grace and empowerment, assuring believers that their strenuous κοπιάω in the Lord is never in vain and is profoundly valued by God. Moreover, it underscores Christ's compassionate invitation to the weary, offering spiritual rest and renewed strength for the journey of faith.
TRV