from θεός and a presumed derivative of πνέω; divinely breathed in:--given by inspiration of God.
Transliteration:theópneustos
Pronunciation:theh-op'-nyoo-stos
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective θεόπνευστος (theópneustos), Strong's number `{{G2315}}`, is a compound word derived from θεός (theos, `{{G2316}}`, meaning "God") and a presumed derivative of πνέω (pneō, `{{G4154}}`, meaning "to blow" or "to breathe"). Thus, its literal and foundational meaning is "God-breathed" or "breathed out by God." This term describes something that originates directly from the divine breath or Spirit of God. The semantic range is narrow but profound, primarily denoting divine origin, supernatural impartation, and inherent authority stemming from God's own life-giving essence. It distinguishes its subject as being not merely human in origin, but possessing the very life and power of God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term θεόπνευστος occurs only once in the entire Greek New Testament, found in [[2 Timothy 3:16]]: "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." This singular occurrence is immensely significant, serving as the foundational text for the doctrine of biblical inspiration.
In its context, Paul is giving his final instructions to Timothy, emphasizing the enduring value and unique nature of the sacred writings. The immediate preceding verse, [[2 Timothy 3:15]], highlights that the "holy Scriptures" are "able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus." Following this, [[2 Timothy 3:16]] asserts the divine nature of "all Scripture" (πᾶσα γραφὴ). The assertion that Scripture is θεόπνευστος means that it proceeds from the very breath of God, much like human speech proceeds from a person's breath. This implies not merely that God *influenced* the human authors, but that the resulting text itself is the direct product of divine utterance, carrying God's own authority and truth. The subsequent clauses detailing Scripture's usefulness ("for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness") flow directly from its God-breathed nature; its efficacy stems from its divine origin.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several key terms and concepts are intimately related to θεόπνευστος:
* θεός (theos, `{{G2316}}`): The ultimate source and author of the "God-breathed" Scripture.
* πνέω (pneō, `{{G4154}}`): The verb for breathing or blowing, forming the root of the "breathed" aspect.
* πνεῦμα (pneuma, `{{G4151}}`): Meaning "spirit," "wind," or "breath." This term is often used for the Holy Spirit, who is widely understood to be the agent of divine inspiration in Scripture (cf. [[2 Peter 1:21]]). The concept of God's "breath" is often synonymous with His Spirit in biblical thought (e.g., [[Genesis 2:7]] where God breathes life into Adam; [[Job 33:4]] "The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life").
* Inspiration: θεόπννευστος is the primary Greek term defining this doctrine. It refers to the supernatural influence of the Holy Spirit upon the biblical writers, which resulted in the trustworthy and authoritative written Word of God.
* Revelation: The broader concept of God disclosing Himself and His truth to humanity. Inspiration is the process by which this revelation is accurately recorded.
* Prophecy: Often linked to divine utterance, where prophets spoke "as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit" ([[2 Peter 1:21]]). This echoes the "God-breathed" nature of their messages.
* Inerrancy/Infallibility: While not explicitly stated in θεόπνευστος, these doctrines are logical corollaries. If Scripture is truly "God-breathed," it follows that it is without error in all it affirms (inerrancy) and cannot fail in its purpose (infallibility).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of θεόπνευστος is immense and foundational to Christian theology:
* **Divine Origin and Authority of Scripture:** This term unequivocally asserts that the Bible is not merely a collection of human writings, but is God's own word, directly proceeding from His divine being. This establishes the Bible's supreme authority over all human thought, tradition, and experience. Because it is "God-breathed," it carries the very authority of God Himself.
* **Sufficiency and Efficacy of Scripture:** The fact that Scripture is θεόπνευστος undergirds its complete adequacy and power for all matters of faith and life. As [[2 Timothy 3:16-17]] states, it is "useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." Its divine origin ensures its transformative power and ability to fully equip believers.
* **Unique Nature of the Bible:** θεόπνευστος sets the Bible apart from all other religious or secular literature. While other writings may contain truth or wisdom, only the Bible is declared to be "God-breathed," possessing a unique divine quality and origin.
* **Implication for Interpretation:** Understanding Scripture as θεόπνευστος necessitates a reverent and careful approach to its interpretation. It demands that believers submit to its teachings as the very word of God, seeking to understand and obey its divine message.
### Summary
θεόπνευστος (theópneustos, `{{G2315}}`), meaning "God-breathed," is a singular yet profoundly significant term in the Greek New Testament, appearing exclusively in [[2 Timothy 3:16]]. It unequivocally asserts that "all Scripture" originates directly from the divine breath of God, establishing its unique nature and supreme authority. This concept is foundational for the Christian doctrine of biblical inspiration, signifying that the Bible is not merely human wisdom but the very utterance of God, imbued with His life, power, and truth. As "God-breathed," Scripture is deemed perfectly reliable, authoritative for faith and practice, and supremely effective in equipping believers for every good work, distinguishing it uniquely among all written works.
TRV