ἀρκέω

arkéō /ar-keh'-o/ Ask about this word
Rootapparently a primary verb (but probably akin to αἴρω through the idea of raising a barrier) · properly, to ward off, i.e. (by implication) to avail (figuratively, be satisfactory)
KJV usagebe content, be enough, suffice, be sufficient.
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Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word arkéō, represented by G714, conveys the idea of being satisfactory or enough. It is derived from a root meaning to ward off, but by implication it means to avail, suffice, or be sufficient. The term appears 11 times across 8 unique verses, where it is most frequently translated as be content.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In scripture, G714 is used in both practical and spiritual contexts. It addresses material sufficiency, such as when the wise virgins fear there will not be enough oil for everyone Matthew 25:9 or when Philip notes that a large amount of bread is not sufficient for the crowd John 6:7. The word also carries a strong ethical weight, instructing believers to be content with their wages Luke 3:14 and with basic provisions like food and clothing 1 Timothy 6:8. This contentment is contrasted with the attitude of Diotrephes, who is "not content" with merely speaking malicious words but escalates his evil deeds 3 John 1:10.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words help clarify the application of G714:

  • G5485 cháris (graciousness... divine influence... grace): This is what God declares is sufficient for Paul, highlighting a divine provision that transcends earthly circumstance 2 Corinthians 12:9.
  • G3800 opsṓnion (rations for a soldier, i.e. his stipend or pay): This term specifies the material provision with which soldiers were commanded to be content Luke 3:14.
  • G3918 páreimi (to be near... at hand... property): Believers are exhorted to be content with the things they currently have, connecting satisfaction to present circumstances rather than future wants Hebrews 13:5.
  • G1305 diatrophḗ (nourishment): Along with raiment, having food is presented as a basis for contentment, emphasizing reliance on fundamental provisions 1 Timothy 6:8.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G714 is significant, centering on the source of true sufficiency.

  • Divine Sufficiency in Weakness: The most profound use of the word comes in God's declaration to Paul: "My grace G5485 is sufficient for thee" 2 Corinthians 12:9. This establishes that God's power is perfected not in human strength, but in weakness G769.
  • Contentment as a Godly Virtue: The repeated command to be content frames satisfaction not as a passive state, but as an active spiritual discipline. It stands in direct opposition to covetousness G866 and is rooted in the promise that God will never leave nor forsake G1459 His people Hebrews 13:5.
  • God as Ultimate Fulfillment: Philip expresses a deep theological truth when he says that to see the Father sufficeth them John 14:8. This points beyond material or circumstantial satisfaction to the ultimate fulfillment found only in the presence of God.

Summary

In summary, G714 is a pivotal word that bridges the gap between human need and divine provision. It moves from the practical concern over whether there is enough bread or oil to the profound spiritual truth that God's grace is always sufficient. The term defines a core tenet of the Christian walk: finding contentment not in abundance, but in the unwavering sufficiency of God himself.

Grammatical Forms

In the Greek New Testament, this word appears as a verb across 8 occurrences, inflected in 7 grammatical forms.

  • Present Active Indicative 3rd Singular 2×
  • Aorist Active Subjunctive 3rd Singular 1×
  • Future Passive Indicative 1st Plural 1×
  • Present Active Indicative 3rd Plural 1×
  • Present Passive Imperative 2nd Plural 1×
  • Present Passive Participle Nominative Plural Masculine 1×
  • Present Passive Participle Nominative Singular Masculine 1×
Nominative
The subject of the verb.
Singular
One.
Plural
More than one.
Masculine
Masculine grammatical gender.
1st
First person — the speaker ("I"/"we").
2nd
Second person — the one addressed ("you").
3rd
Third person — the one spoken about ("he"/"they").
Present
Action in progress or repeated — happening now or continually.
Future
Action yet to take place.
Aorist
Action viewed as a single whole — usually a simple past event.
Active
The subject performs the action.
Passive
The subject is acted upon.
Indicative
A plain statement of fact.
Imperative
A command or entreaty.
Subjunctive
Possibility or purpose — "might", "should".
Participle
A verbal adjective — describes while carrying the verb's action.

Theographic Context

Biblical Distribution

Appears in 8 verses across 7 books. Most frequent in John (2 verses).

1
Matthew
1
Luke
2
John
1
2 Corinthians
1
1 Timothy
1
Hebrews
1
3 John

Verse Explorer

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