δοκίμιον
dokímion
G1383 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
Testing, proving, or the means of testing; refers both to the process of examination to establish quality or genuineness and to that which demonstrates reliability. The term can also denote the result or evidence of something having successfully endured a test, indicating proven character or trustworthiness. Its primary focus is on the procedure and outcome of examination, with reference both to literal testing (such as of metals) and metaphorical examination (such as of faith or character).
Semantic Range
means of testing, process of testing, proof by trial, proven genuineness, demonstration of worth, result of being tested
Root / Etymology
From the Greek root δοκίμ- (related to δέχομαι 'to accept, receive'), connected with δοκιμάζω ('to test, examine, prove'). δοκίμιον is a neuter substantive, indicating either the testing process or the tested object. It is related to δοκιμή ('testing, proof') but with neuter form often emphasizing the thing tested or the act/result of testing. Root relates to the concept of proving or demonstrating validity or worth through examination.
Historical & Contextual Notes
δοκίμιον is not attested in classical literature and its documented usage is primarily in late Koine sources, including the Septuagint (LXX, e.g., Wisdom 3:6) and New Testament (e.g., James 1:3; 1 Peter 1:7). Its sense in these contexts frequently draws on the imagery of the assaying of metals, where the process of refinement demonstrates or certifies authenticity and value. In LXX and NT, δοκίμιον metaphorically refers to the testing of a person's faith, loyalty, or character—with emphasis both on the process and the proven outcome. English translations sometimes render it as 'trial,' 'testing,' or 'proof,' but these may not always express the implicit nuance of something made genuine or trustworthy through examination. Related terms: δοκιμή (the act/result of approval), δοκιμάζω (to test, prove, examine). Not to be confused with πειρασμός (temptation, trial), which more strongly carries the sense of adversity or enticement. δοκίμιον centers on testing aimed at revealing true quality.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
neuter of a presumed derivative of δοκιμή; a testing; by implication, trustworthiness:--trial, trying.
Root Family
δοκίμιον (dokimion) — testing, examining, proving, demonstrated genuineness
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1383-01 |
δοκίμιον | dokimion | N NOM N SG |
proof | proving test | 2 |
Occurrences in Scripture
2 total occurrences
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1383-01 |
James 1:3 | δοκίμιον | dokimion | N NOM N SG |
testing | proving test |
G1383-01 |
1 Peter 1:7 | δοκίμιον | dokimion | N NOM N SG |
proof | proving test |