Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial for biblical studies, as it reveals deeper meanings and nuances in New Testament texts. The Greek word θρησκός (thrēskos) is particularly significant because it refers to being “religious” or “devout.” This adjective captures the idea of someone who is conscientious in their religious duties and observances. Examining θρησκός helps us better understand the emphasis on outward piety versus inward devotion, a theme that is central to many New Testament discussions about genuine faith and practice.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: θρησκός (thrēskos) [thray-SKOS]
• Etymology: Derived from the root θρησκεία (thrēskeía), meaning “religion” or “worship.” The adjective θρησκός pertains to someone who is religiously devout, emphasizing adherence to religious rites and ceremonies.
• Part of Speech: Adjective; used to describe a person who is diligent in religious practices or observances.
• Grammatical Details: Second declension adjective; follows a specific pattern for masculine, feminine, and neuter forms.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• Religious: Pertaining to a person who is devout or diligent in religious practices.
• Devout: Demonstrating a strong commitment to religious observances, often seen through outward expressions or behaviors.
• Pious: Showing reverence for religious duties, often by meticulously following rituals or commandments.

Similar Words: εὐλαβής (eulabḗs) [yoo-lah-BAYS] is another Greek adjective meaning “reverent” or “devout.” While εὐλαβής emphasizes a careful, respectful attitude toward worship and God’s commands, θρησκός focuses more on the outward observance of religious rites. Another related word is ὅσιος (hosios) [HO-see-os], meaning “holy” or “pious.” While ὅσιος refers to a broader concept of holiness or moral purity, θρησκός specifically denotes a person’s dedication to religious practices.

Further Insights: As a second declension adjective, θρησκός has a distinct set of endings for masculine, feminine, and neuter forms. Below is a table showing the full declension of θρησκός:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: θρησκός is defined as “devout” or “religious.” BDAG emphasizes its use to describe individuals who are conscientious in their religious practices, often associated with ritual observance and external expressions of faith.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Thayer’s describes θρησκός as “religious, devout,” especially focusing on the outward practices that reflect one’s religious dedication. It highlights how this term is used in contexts where the sincerity of one’s religious life might be assessed by visible actions.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Vine’s discusses θρησκός in terms of its literal meaning “religious.” The dictionary points out that the term is often used to denote an individual’s commitment to their faith through visible practices rather than purely internal beliefs.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): The LSJ lexicon provides a broad overview of θρησκός, describing it as “devout” or “pious” in both classical and biblical contexts. It notes that while the term can carry a positive connotation of faithfulness, it can also suggest a focus on mere outward observance without true inward commitment.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: G2357. Strong’s defines θρησκός as “religious,” highlighting its use in the New Testament to describe someone who adheres strictly to religious customs and observances. It also emphasizes the potential criticism in certain contexts where mere outward religiosity is questioned.

Related Scripture References

• James 1:26: “If anyone thinks himself to be religious (θρησκός), and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man’s religion is worthless.”

Classical Usage

Summary of θρησκός (G2357)

The Greek adjective θρησκός (thrēskos) primarily means “religious” or “devout.” It describes a person who is dedicated to the outward expressions of their faith, particularly through rituals, ceremonies, and other visible acts of piety. In the New Testament, this word appears in contexts that examine the balance between outward religious observance and true inner devotion, often challenging readers to consider the sincerity and authenticity of their faith practices. Understanding θρησκός allows for a deeper exploration of biblical teachings on genuine worship, highlighting the tension between mere religiosity and heartfelt spirituality.

Did You Know?

The word θρησκός is closely related to θρησκεία, which refers to “religion” or “worship.” However, while θρησκεία describes the system or practice of religion, θρησκός specifically describes the person engaged in that system. In James 1:26, θρησκός is used to caution believers that external religiosity, such as observing rituals or speaking piously, is not enough if it is not accompanied by genuine self-control and inner transformation. This passage reflects a broader biblical theme that emphasizes the importance of aligning outward religious practices with a true and sincere devotion to God.