Unveiling the Word

In biblical studies, the word nomos (νόμος) carries significant theological and cultural weight, as it often refers to “law” or “principle.” Understanding this Greek term is crucial for interpreting key concepts in both the Old and New Testaments, especially concerning the Mosaic Law and broader ethical standards. Nomos plays a central role in New Testament theology, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and Paul regarding the law’s purpose and fulfillment. It also reflects the profound influence of legal systems in ancient Greek culture, where laws governed civic and moral life.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: νόμος (nomos), pronounced NO-mos.

Etymology: The root word nomos is derived from the verb nemo (νέμω), which means “to distribute” or “to allot.” This root underscores the idea of laws being distributed or apportioned to people, reflecting the order and governance provided by legal systems in society. In the biblical context, nomos is often synonymous with God’s divine laws, especially the Torah.

Part of Speech: Nomos is a masculine noun, commonly used to describe both human and divine law. In the New Testament, it often refers to the Mosaic Law, but it can also encompass legal principles in a more general sense.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. Mosaic Law: In most biblical contexts, nomos refers to the Mosaic Law or Torah, the set of divine commandments given to the Israelites through Moses. In passages such as Matthew 5:17, Jesus refers to this aspect of the law, indicating its divine authority and its ultimate fulfillment in Him.

2. General Law or Principle: Nomos can also refer to legal principles or rules governing behavior, not only in a religious sense but also in a civic or ethical context. This broader usage reflects the influence of legal systems in the Greco-Roman world.

3. Normative Principle or Custom: In some cases, nomos is used to denote a customary or traditional law, one that governs societal expectations and practices.

Exploring Similar Words

1. ἐντολή (entolē) [pronunciation: en-to-LAY]: This word means “commandment” and differs from nomos in that it typically refers to specific directives or commands rather than an overarching legal system.

2. δικαίωμα (dikaiōma) [pronunciation: dee-KAI-oh-ma]: Meaning “just requirement” or “righteous decree,” this word focuses on the fulfillment of legal or moral obligations, often tied to the concept of righteousness.

3. κανών (kanōn) [pronunciation: ka-NON]: While it means “rule” or “standard,” kanōn emphasizes the boundaries or measures set for behavior or belief, rather than a comprehensive legal code like nomos.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a noun, nomos is part of the second declension in Greek. It can appear in various cases depending on its grammatical role in the sentence:

• Case: Nominative (subject), genitive (possessive), dative (indirect object), and accusative (direct object).

• Number: Singular (nomos) and plural (nomoi).

• Gender: Masculine.

For a beginner’s guide to reading Greek grammar, click here.

Studying Lexicon Insights

In the New Testament, nomos frequently refers to the Mosaic Law, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and Paul. It is central to understanding debates over the role of the law in salvation and sanctification. In Matthew 5:17, Jesus states, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law (nomos) or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” Here, nomos represents the divine commandments, and Jesus emphasizes that His mission was to complete their intended purpose. Paul, on the other hand, often contrasts nomos with faith, particularly in Romans and Galatians, to explain that righteousness comes not through law-keeping but through faith in Christ.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Matthew 5:17: “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law [nomos] or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.”

2. Romans 7:12: “So then, the law [nomos] is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous, and good.”

3. Galatians 3:24: “So the law [nomos] was our guardian until Christ came that we might be justified by faith.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work Text

Plato Republic “The laws [nomoi] provide the structure by which a society can pursue justice and harmony.”

Aristotle Politics “Without the laws [nomoi], there would be no order, only chaos.”

Septuagint Deuteronomy “The LORD gave these statutes and laws [nomoi] to Israel as an everlasting covenant.”

Noteworthy Summary

Nomos is a foundational term in biblical theology, representing divine law, particularly the Mosaic Law. It is central to understanding the relationship between Old Testament commandments and New Testament grace. While nomos refers to God’s law in a religious sense, its broader implications include ethical and civic governance in both Greco-Roman and biblical contexts.

Did You Know?

1. The word nomos appears over 190 times in the New Testament, making it one of the most important theological terms.

2. In Greek philosophical thought, nomos was essential to debates about the nature of justice and the role of laws in human society.

3. The Hebrew equivalent of nomos is Torah, which also carries the dual sense of instruction and law.