δοκέω

From the study of John 5:39

Range of meaning

To think, suppose, hold an opinion; also to seem. It can be neutral ('I think') or suggest an opinion that is mistaken or unsupported.

Against the English

'Think' (KJV, ESV, NIV) is neutral. BSB's 'presume' brings out the critical edge more strongly, which the context supports but which is stronger than the word alone.

Used elsewhere in the period

John uses it of mistaken assumptions in 11:13, 11:31, 13:29, 16:2 and 20:15 ('supposing him to be the gardener').

From the study of John 16:2

Range of meaning

To think, suppose or consider; also to seem or appear. It often describes an opinion that may be wrong.

Against the English

'Think' (all major versions) is accurate. The point is sincerity: the killers are not cynics.

Used elsewhere in the period

Common in Koine Greek. John uses it for mistaken assumptions: 5:39 ('you think that in them you have eternal life'), 11:13, 11:31, 13:29, 20:15.

From the study of Galatians 2:2

Range of meaning

To think, suppose; to seem, appear; as a participle used as a noun, 'those who seem', meaning people of reputation or influence (BDAG s.v. δοκέω 2b).

Against the English

KJV 'them which were of reputation'; YLT 'those esteemed'; WEB 'those who were respected'; BSB 'those recognized as leaders'. 'Leaders' names a role. The Greek describes reputation, how they were regarded.

Used elsewhere in the period

A recognised idiom in classical Greek: Euripides, Hecuba 294-295 contrasts the word of 'those of no account' with that of 'those of reputation' (tōn dokountōn). Paul repeats it in Gal 2:6 (twice) and 2:9, where those so described turn out to be James, Cephas and John, 'reputed to be pillars'.