Lexical Summary dokimé: Approval, proven character, testing, trial Original Word: δοκιμή Strong's Exhaustive Concordance experience, proof, trial. From the same as dokimos; test (abstractly or concretely); by implication, trustiness -- experience(-riment), proof, trial. see GREEK dokimos HELPS Word-studies Cognate: 1382 dokimḗ (a feminine noun derived from 1384 /dókimos) – proof of genuineness ("approval, through testing"), a brand of what is "tested and true." See 1381 (dokimazō). NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom dokimos Definition (the process or result of) trial, proving, approval NASB Translation ordeal (1), proof (2), proven character (2), proven worth (1), test (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1382: δοκιμήδοκιμή, δοκιμῆς, ἡ (dokimos];); 1. in an active sense, a proving, trial: θλίψεως, through affliction, 2 Corinthians 8:2. 2. approvedness, tried character: Romans 5:4; 2 Corinthians 2:9; Philippians 2:22; τῆς διακονίας, exhibited in the contribution, 2 Corinthians 9:13. 3. "a proof (objectively], a specimen of (Dioscorides ( Strong’s Greek 1382 designates the quality of having stood a test and been found genuine. The term therefore points not to the testing itself, but to the proven result of that testing—reliable character, authentic faith, or conclusive evidence. Old Testament Background Israel’s Scriptures often connect divine testing with refinement, as silver or gold is purified in fire (for example, Proverbs 17:3). The Septuagint frequently links this imagery to God’s dealings with His people (Psalm 26:2; Zechariah 13:9). By the first century, the notion of “approving by trial” was already a well–worn covenant theme, preparing Jewish readers for its New-Testament development. New Testament Usage 1. Romans 5:4 situates the word in the golden chain of sanctification: “perseverance, character, and character, hope.” Trials yield a tested quality that in turn fuels confident expectation. Theological Significance • Perseverance and Assurance: Genuine faith is not created by trials but unmasked through them. The sequence in Romans 5 clarifies that assurance rests on observable, Spirit-wrought steadfastness. Christological Dimensions Paul asserts that the quest for “proof” ultimately centers on Christ speaking through His servants (2 Corinthians 13:3). The tested life of the messenger points beyond itself to the unassailable reliability of the Master. Ecclesial Implications Churches are called to provide contexts where faith can be demonstrated: transparent finances, loving correction, sacrificial giving, and patient endurance. The presence—or absence—of such “proofs” visibly commends or discredits the Gospel before a watching world. Pastoral and Spiritual Application 1. Encourage Believers: Trials are not interruptions but instruments by which God certifies His workmanship. Historical and Cultural Insights Ancient metallurgy required intense heat to separate dross from precious metal; only what survived the furnace was considered acceptable currency. First-century readers would thus hear in δοκιμή the ring of unalloyed integrity—qualified for circulation in God’s economy. Summary Strong’s Greek 1382 directs attention to the visible, tested reality of faith and ministry. Whether applied to personal character, congregational obedience, or apostolic authority, it teaches that God never leaves genuineness to guesswork; He crafts unmistakable evidence that both comforts the believer and glorifies the Savior. Englishman's Concordance Romans 5:4 N-AFSGRK: δὲ ὑπομονὴ δοκιμήν ἡ δὲ NAS: and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, KJV: patience, experience; and INT: and endurance character and Romans 5:4 N-NFS 2 Corinthians 2:9 N-AFS 2 Corinthians 8:2 N-DFS 2 Corinthians 9:13 N-GFS 2 Corinthians 13:3 N-AFS Philippians 2:22 N-AFS Hebrews 3:9 N-DFS Strong's Greek 1382 |
    |