Brief Overview of ἀψευδής (G893: apseudēs)

1. Brief Overview
The Greek word ἀψευδής (apseudēs), transliterated as “apseudēs,” directly translates to “truthful” or “incapable of lying.” It denotes the quality of being genuine, sincere, and free from deceit. The word is a compound of “a-” (a negation prefix) and “pseudēs” (lying), effectively meaning “not lying.”

2. Detailed Lexical Analysis
According to BDAG, ἀψευδής emphasizes truthfulness as an inherent quality or trait, focusing on an individual’s reliable and honest nature. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon aligns with this interpretation, underscoring the moral and ethical implications of being truthful. Vines Expository Dictionary elaborates on the moral steadfastness this word suggests in scriptural contexts. LSJ references non-biblical uses that highlight reliability in spoken words and promises. In the New Testament, ἀψευδής is used in Titus 1:2, denoting God’s truthful nature: “in hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began.”

3. Classical Greek Usage
In classical Greek literature, ἀψευδής is often employed to describe the virtues of gods and heroes, emphasizing their moral fiber:

• In philosophical discourses, such as those by Plato, it is used to discuss the virtue of leaders and philosophers.
• Poetic texts sometimes apply ἀψευδής to describe the unchanging nature of the divine proclamations.
• Historical accounts utilize the term to affirm the reliability of certain historical narratives or testimonies up to the year 100AD.

4. Summary
ἀψευδής (G893) conveys the quality of being truthful and honest, heavily emphasizing moral integrity. Its application ranges from religious texts, where it describes the divine attribute of infallibility, to classical literature, where it enhances the credibility of characters and narrations. This word’s significance in ancient texts underscores the high value placed on truthfulness as both a personal virtue and a foundational element of ethical conduct. The exploration of ἀψευδής through various lexicons and literatures highlights its enduring relevance in discussions of truth and morality.