### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **thrēskeía**, represented by `{{G2356}}`, refers to **ceremonial observance** and is translated as **religion** or **worshipping**. Derived from a word meaning religious or pious `{{G2357}}`, it appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, often to distinguish between true and false forms of devotion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2356}}` is used to evaluate the nature of one's worship. It defines a "pure and undefiled" **religion** before God as one of active compassion: "To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction" [[James 1:27]]. This is contrasted with a **religion** that is "vain," characterized by an unbridled tongue and a deceived heart [[James 1:26]]. The term is also used to describe misguided practices, such as the **worshipping** of angels, which is associated with a "fleshly mind" [[Colossians 2:18]]. Finally, it can refer to a formal religious system, as when Paul describes his former life as a Pharisee belonging to "the most straitest sect of our **religion**" [[Acts 26:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of ceremonial observance:
* `{{G2357}}` **thrēskós** (religious): The root word for `{{G2356}}`, it describes someone who is ceremonious in worship. It is used to describe a person who may *seem* religious but whose actions prove otherwise [[James 1:26]].
* `{{G139}}` **haíresis** (sect): This term denotes a party or faction and is used alongside `{{G2356}}` to describe the organized system of the Pharisees within the broader Jewish religion [[Acts 26:5]].
* `{{G1980}}` **episképtomai** (to visit): This word describes the key action of true religion. It means to inspect or relieve, highlighting the active care for others that is central to pure worship [[James 1:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2356}}` centers on the nature of true worship versus empty ritual.
* **Action over Appearance:** The contrast in James shows that authentic **religion** is defined by its tangible outcomes—caring for the vulnerable and maintaining personal purity—not by outward piety. A religion is considered "vain" `{{G3152}}` if it lacks control over the tongue `{{G1100}}`, revealing a deceived heart `{{G2588}}` [[James 1:26]].
* **The Object of Worship:** Scripture warns against misdirected **worshipping** `{{G2356}}`. The worship of angels `{{G32}}` is condemned as a practice that can "beguile you of your reward" and stems from being "puffed up" by a fleshly `{{G4561}}` mind `{{G3563}}` [[Colossians 2:18]].
* **Pure and Undefiled Religion:** The standard for true **religion** is that it must be "pure" `{{G2513}}` and "undefiled" `{{G283}}` before God the Father `{{G3962}}`. This involves both compassionate action toward others in their "affliction" `{{G2347}}` and keeping oneself "unspotted from the world" `{{G2889}}` [[James 1:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2356}}` is a critical term used not merely to label a system of belief, but to assess its substance. Its biblical usage consistently shifts the focus from external ceremony to the internal state of the heart, which is proven by outward actions of love and holiness. It distinguishes between a living faith that serves God and helps others, and a vain religion rooted in human tradition or a deceived mind.
TRV