from δίς and λόγος; equivocal, i.e. telling a different story:--double-tongued.
Transliteration:dílogos
Pronunciation:dil'-og-os
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term δίλογος (dílogos), Strong's number `{{G1351}}`, is a compound word derived from δίς (dis), meaning "twice" or "double," and λόγος (logos), meaning "word," "speech," or "reason." Therefore, its literal sense is "double-worded" or "double-speaking." This etymology immediately conveys a sense of duplicity or inconsistency in communication. Semantically, δίλογος refers to one who speaks equivocally, telling different stories to different people, or speaking inconsistently about the same matter. It implies insincerity, unreliability, and a lack of straightforwardness in speech. Such a person might be two-faced, engaging in gossip, slander, or spreading contradictory information, thereby undermining trust and fostering division. The core meaning points to a fundamental flaw in character manifested through deceptive or inconsistent verbal expression.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term δίλογος appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[1 Timothy 3:8]]. In this passage, the Apostle Paul is outlining the qualifications for deacons within the early Christian church. The verse states, "Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain." The prohibition against being "double-tongued" (δίλογος) in this context is highly significant. It underscores the vital importance of integrity, trustworthiness, and consistency in speech for those who hold positions of service and leadership within the body of Christ. A deacon's role often involved practical ministry, including serving the poor, managing resources, and representing the church. Such responsibilities necessitate absolute honesty and reliability. A "double-tongued" individual would sow discord, erode confidence, and compromise the witness of the church. This qualification ensures that deacons are people whose words can be trusted, whose message is consistent, and who do not engage in divisive or manipulative communication.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of being δίλογος stands in stark contrast to several positive biblical virtues and aligns with various negative ones.
* **Opposites/Antonyms:** Truthfulness (`{{G225}}` ἀλήθεια), sincerity, integrity (`{{G4103}}` πιστός - faithful/trustworthy), straightforwardness (`{{G5146}}` τρέχω - to run straight, metaphorically), and transparency. The opposite of a "double-tongued" person is one whose "yes is yes and no is no" ([[Matthew 5:37]], [[James 5:12]]).
* **Related Negative Concepts:**
* `{{G5574}}` ψεύδομαι (pseudomai) - to lie, to speak falsely. While δίλογος implies inconsistency rather than direct falsehood, inconsistency often leads to deception.
* `{{G1228}}` διάβολος (diabolos) - slanderer, accuser. This term is used in [[1 Timothy 3:11]] for deaconesses, implying that women in ministry should also avoid slander, a form of destructive speech akin to being double-tongued.
* `{{G2635}}` καταλαλέω (katalaleo) - to speak evil of, to slander.
* `{{G5397}}` φλύαρος (phlyaros) - babbler, gossip.
* `{{G5272}}` ὑπόκρισις (hypokrisis) - hypocrisy. A double-tongued person often acts hypocritically, presenting different facades.
* **Related Positive Concepts:** The call to speak the truth in love (`{{G225}}` ἀληθεύω ἐν ἀγάπῃ - [[Ephesians 4:15]]), the importance of a consistent testimony, and the unity of the Spirit.
### Theological Significance
The condemnation of δίλογος speech carries profound theological weight. It reflects the very character of God, who is truth itself (`{{G225}}` ἀλήθεια - [[John 14:6]], [[Titus 1:2]]). God's word is utterly consistent, reliable, and without shadow of turning ([[James 1:17]]). Therefore, for believers, and especially for those in leadership, speech should mirror divine integrity. To be "double-tongued" is to act contrary to God's nature and to undermine the very foundation of truth upon which the church is built.
Furthermore, δίλογος speech disrupts the unity of the body of Christ. It fosters suspicion, division, and mistrust among believers, hindering the church's mission and witness to the world. Christian ministry, whether in formal leadership or daily life, requires an unwavering commitment to truth and consistency in communication, ensuring that the message of the Gospel is conveyed with clarity and integrity. The prohibition serves as a safeguard, protecting the church from internal strife and external reproach, ensuring that its leaders are worthy of trust and capable of fostering genuine fellowship.
### Summary
The Greek word δίλογος (dílogos - `{{G1351}}`) signifies being "double-tongued," characterizing one who speaks inconsistently, equivocally, or deceitfully. Its solitary New Testament occurrence in [[1 Timothy 3:8]] highlights its critical importance as a disqualifier for deacons, underscoring the necessity of integrity, trustworthiness, and consistency in the speech of church leaders. This quality stands in direct opposition to God's own character of unwavering truthfulness and undermines the unity and witness of the Christian community. The call to avoid being δίλογος is a call to embody sincerity, reliability, and straightforwardness in all communication, reflecting the divine nature and fostering healthy, trusting relationships within the body of Christ.
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