of uncertain affinity; a deity, especially (with ὁ) the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very:--X exceeding, God, god(-ly, -ward).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word θεός (theós), Strong's number G2316, is a foundational term in the New Testament, carrying a rich semantic range. Its primary meaning denotes "a deity" or "a god." When used with the definite article (ὁ θεός), it refers specifically and uniquely to the supreme God, the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, distinguishing Him from all other beings or concepts. This usage aligns with the monotheistic understanding inherited from the Old Testament.
Beyond its primary theological application, θεός can also be used in a figurative or secondary sense. It can refer to "magistrates" or "rulers," as seen in the Septuagint's translation of `{{H430}}` (elohim) in passages like [[Psalm 82:6]], which is quoted by Jesus in [[John 10:34-35]]. This metaphorical usage highlights their divinely appointed authority and their role as representatives of divine justice. Furthermore, the term can be employed by Hebraism to denote something "exceeding" or "very" great, though this is less common for the noun θεός itself in the New Testament and more often applies to the concept of divine superlative in adjectives or adverbs. The base definition also acknowledges its use for false gods or idols, contrasting the one true God with pagan deities.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word θεός appears over 1,300 times in the New Testament, making it one of the most frequent and significant terms. Its occurrences span a wide array of contexts, primarily referring to God the Father, the first person of the Trinity. For instance, [[John 3:16]] states, "For God so loved the world..." and [[Romans 1:7]] speaks of "God our Father."
Crucially, θεός is also explicitly applied to Jesus Christ, affirming His divine nature. Notable examples include [[John 1:1]], "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God," where the second "God" refers to Christ. Similarly, Thomas's confession in [[John 20:28]], "My Lord and my God!", directly addresses Jesus. Other significant passages include [[Titus 2:13]], "our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ," and [[Hebrews 1:8]], "But of the Son he says, 'Your throne, O God, is forever and ever.'" These applications are central to New Testament Christology.
In some contexts, θεός refers to false gods or idols worshipped by pagans, highlighting the stark contrast with the one true God. Examples include [[Acts 7:43]], referencing the worship of Molech, and [[1 Corinthians 8:5]], where Paul acknowledges that "there are many 'gods' and many 'lords'" in the pagan world, but for believers, "there is one God, the Father." This usage underscores the New Testament's unwavering monotheistic stance, even while acknowledging the existence of other spiritual powers or objects of worship.
The figurative use for human authorities, as seen in [[John 10:34]] (referencing [[Psalm 82:6]]), serves to underscore the divine mandate given to those in positions of judgment and governance, reminding them of their accountability to the ultimate divine authority.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding θεός is enriched by examining its relationship to other terms and concepts. In the Septuagint (LXX), the Greek translation of the Old Testament, θεός is the primary equivalent for the Hebrew `{{H430}}` (elohim) and `{{H410}}` (el), both generic terms for "god" or "God," and sometimes even for `{{H3068}}` (YHWH), the personal name of God, though Κύριος (Kyrios, "Lord") is more commonly used for YHWH. This connection highlights the continuity of the divine identity between the Old and New Covenants.
Other significant Greek words derived from or related to the root of θεός include:
* `{{G2317}}` (theios): an adjective meaning "divine" or "pertaining to God," as in [[2 Peter 1:3-4]] describing God's "divine power" and "divine nature."
* `{{G2320}}` (theotēs): a noun meaning "deity" or "divinity," emphasizing the essential nature of God, as in [[Colossians 2:9]] which states that "in Christ all the fullness of the Deity dwells in bodily form."
* `{{G2321}}` (theion): a neuter adjective used as a noun, referring to "divinity" or "divine being," seen in [[Acts 17:29]].
* `{{G2315}}` (theosebeia): "godliness" or "piety," referring to the worship or reverence of God.
* `{{G2318}}` (theodidaktos): "taught by God," indicating divine instruction.
The concept of θεός is inextricably linked to fundamental theological doctrines such as monotheism (the belief in one God), the Trinity (the belief in one God existing as three co-equal persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), divine sovereignty, creation, redemption, and the ultimate source of moral law.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of θεός is paramount to Christian doctrine. It unequivocally affirms the existence of one supreme, transcendent, and immanent God who is distinct from creation yet intimately involved in it. This monotheistic affirmation stands in stark contrast to the polytheistic religions prevalent in the Greco-Roman world, providing a unique foundation for Christian worship and worldview.
The application of θεός to Jesus Christ is a cornerstone of New Testament Christology, establishing His co-equality and co-eternality with God the Father. This divine identity of Christ is essential for understanding His role as Savior, Mediator, and Lord, as only one who is truly God could accomplish the work of atonement and reconciliation for humanity. The Holy Spirit, though not directly called θεός in the same explicit manner as the Father and Son, is consistently depicted with divine attributes and actions, completing the Trinitarian understanding of God.
Furthermore, the concept of θεός underpins the doctrines of creation (God as the ultimate source of all things), providence (God's active governance over His creation), and redemption (God's initiative in saving humanity through Christ). It defines the ultimate object of worship, the source of all truth and goodness, and the standard for all righteousness. Humanity's relationship with θεός is central to its purpose and destiny, culminating in fellowship with Him through Christ. The reverence and awe inspired by the term reflect the inherent majesty, power, and holiness of the Divine.
### Summary
The Greek word θεός (G2316) is a pivotal term in the New Testament, primarily referring to the one supreme God, the Creator of all. Its usage consistently upholds the monotheistic framework inherited from the Old Testament. Crucially, θεός is also directly applied to Jesus Christ, affirming His full deity and establishing a foundational tenet of Christian Christology. While occasionally used for false gods or human magistrates, these instances serve to highlight the unique nature and supreme authority of the true God. The semantic range of θεός, along with its related terms, underpins core Christian doctrines such as the Trinity, creation, and redemption, emphasizing God's ultimate sovereignty, love, and redemptive plan for humanity. Its pervasive presence in the New Testament underscores the centrality of God to all aspects of Christian faith and life.
TRV