### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **deisidaimonía**, represented by `{{G1175}}`, refers to **superstition** or religion. It is a rare term in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. Its singular use provides a unique glimpse into how matters of faith were perceived from an external, political perspective.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{G1175}}` is in the book of Acts, where the Roman governor Festus describes the case against the apostle Paul. He explains to King Agrippa that the dispute was not criminal but involved "certain **questions** against him of their own **superstition**, and of one **Jesus**, which was dead, whom **Paul** affirmed to be alive" [[Acts 25:19]]. The word is used here to characterize the religious beliefs at the heart of the conflict.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify the meaning of `{{G1175}}`:
* `{{G2213}}` **zḗtēma** (a search... a debate): This word, translated as **questions**, establishes that the "superstition" was a matter of debate and inquiry. The issues were subjects of legal and religious contention [[Acts 25:19]].
* `{{G2348}}` **thnḗskō** (to die): This describes the state of Jesus as understood by the accusers, "which was **dead**" [[Acts 25:19]]. It sets up the central point of conflict.
* `{{G2198}}` **záō** (to live): In direct contrast, Paul's message centered on the affirmation that Jesus was alive. The core of the "superstition" in question was the resurrection, as Paul affirmed Jesus "to **be alive**" [[Acts 25:19]].
* `{{G5335}}` **pháskō** (to assert): This word highlights the strength of Paul's declaration. He did not merely suggest but **affirmed** the reality of the resurrection, elevating the "question" from a simple debate to a bold assertion of truth [[Acts 25:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1175}}` is derived entirely from its unique context, which frames the Christian faith from an outsider's viewpoint.
* **A Subject of Debate:** The term is used to frame the Christian message as a series of **questions** `{{G2213}}` pertaining to the Jews' "own **superstition**" [[Acts 25:19]]. It shows that the core tenets of faith were seen as points of internal religious dispute by Roman authorities.
* **The Resurrection as the Core Issue:** The specific content of this "superstition" centered on one **Jesus** `{{G2424}}`, who "was **dead**" `{{G2348}}` but whom Paul claimed to "be **alive**" `{{G2198}}`. This places the resurrection as the central, defining point of contention.
* **Perception versus Reality:** By labeling the resurrection debate as a "superstition," Festus reveals a secular dismissal of a foundational spiritual truth. The narrative contrasts his perspective with Paul's confident affirmation `{{G5335}}` of a living Christ.
### Summary
In summary, **deisidaimonía** `{{G1175}}` is far more than a simple definition of **superstition**. Its single, powerful use in scripture captures a pivotal moment where the core of the Gospel—the death and resurrection of Jesus—is being adjudicated by worldly powers. It illustrates how a profound spiritual reality can be dismissed as a mere religious "question" `{{G2213}}`, highlighting the fundamental divide between faith and a secular worldview.
TRV