from a derivative of θρησκός; ceremonial observance:--religion, worshipping.
Transliteration:thrēskeía
Pronunciation:thrace-ki'-ah
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term *thrēskeía* (G2356) is derived from *thrēskos* (G2357), meaning "religious" or "pious." Its core semantic range encompasses outward religious practice, ceremonial observance, or a system of worship. It refers to the external expression of devotion, the *form* or *cultus* of religion, rather than necessarily the internal belief or spiritual state. While translated as "religion" or "worshipping," it carries a nuance emphasizing the performance of religious duties or rituals. Depending on the context, *thrēskeía* can describe genuine piety expressed outwardly or, conversely, a superficial adherence to religious forms devoid of true spiritual substance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *thrēskeía* appears only four times in the New Testament, each providing crucial contextual insight into its meaning:
1. **[[Acts 26:5]]**: Paul, in his defense before King Agrippa, states, "They have known for a long time, if they are willing to testify, that I lived as a Pharisee according to the strictest party of our religion [thrēskeía]." Here, *thrēskeía* refers to the specific outward practices, traditions, and system of Judaism, particularly as observed by the rigorous sect of the Pharisees. It describes the established form of their religious life.
2. **[[Colossians 2:18]]**: Paul warns the believers, "Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism and worship [thrēskeía] of angels, going on in detail about visions, puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind." In this context, *thrēskeía* carries a negative connotation, referring to a false, humanly devised system of worship that involves self-imposed rituals, asceticism, and the veneration of angels. It represents an empty, misleading form of religiosity that detracts from Christ's supremacy.
3. **[[James 1:26]]**: "If anyone thinks he is religious [thrēskos] and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion [thrēskeía] is worthless." Here, *thrēskeía* describes a superficial religiosity. James contrasts outward appearance or self-perception of piety with a lack of moral control (specifically the tongue), indicating that such external show without inner transformation and ethical conduct is futile and without value in God's sight.
4. **[[James 1:27]]**: "Religion [thrēskeía] that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world." This is the most profound and positive use of the term. James redefines true *thrēskeía* not as ritualistic observance or ceremonial acts, but as active compassion for the vulnerable and moral purity. It shifts the focus from mere external rites to concrete acts of love and separation from worldly corruption, presenting these as the genuine and acceptable form of worship before God.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **thrēskos** (G2357): The adjective form, meaning "religious" or "pious," from which *thrēskeía* is derived. It describes one who is characterized by religious observance.
* **latreia** (G3000): Often translated "worship" or "service." While *thrēskeía* emphasizes the *form* or *system* of worship, *latreia* highlights the *act* of service or devotion, particularly to God. *Latreia* can encompass both cultic service (e.g., [[Hebrews 9:1]]) and spiritual service (e.g., [[Romans 12:1]]).
* **eusebeia** (G2150): "Godliness" or "piety." This term emphasizes the inner disposition of reverence and devotion towards God, which manifests in a life lived in accordance with His will. While *thrēskeía* is the outward expression, *eusebeia* points to the inward character and attitude that undergirds genuine faith. James's redefinition of *thrēskeía* in [[James 1:27]] brings it very close to the essence of *eusebeia*.
* **leitourgia** (G3009): "Liturgy," "public service," or "ministry." This term typically refers to official, public service rendered to God or the community, often in a formal or institutionalized religious context. It shares the aspect of "outward performance" but implies a more structured and public form of service.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *thrēskeía* is primarily shaped by James's radical redefinition. Initially, the term captures the essence of external religious practice, which can be neutral (describing Judaism in [[Acts 26:5]]) or negative (denoting false worship in [[Colossians 2:18]] and superficiality in [[James 1:26]]). However, James's declaration in [[James 1:27]] profoundy elevates and reorients the understanding of "religion." He asserts that true *thrēskeía* is not found in ceremonialism or outward show, but in active compassion for the vulnerable (orphans and widows) and in maintaining personal holiness by remaining unstained from worldly corruption.
This challenges any notion that genuine worship is primarily about ritualistic adherence or human traditions. Instead, it aligns with the prophetic tradition that consistently prioritizes justice, mercy, and humility over mere sacrifice (e.g., [[Micah 6:8]], [[Hosea 6:6]]). The New Testament consistently emphasizes that true piety stems from a transformed heart, manifested through love for God and neighbor, and expressed in ethical living and good works. *Thrēskeía* thus serves as a critical theological lens through which to examine the authenticity and substance of one's faith expression, distinguishing between empty ritual and vibrant, life-transforming devotion.
### Summary
The Greek word *thrēskeía* (G2356) denotes outward religious practice, ceremonial observance, or a system of worship. Its limited occurrences in the New Testament provide diverse applications. In [[Acts 26:5]], it describes the strict practices of Judaism. In [[Colossians 2:18]], it warns against deceptive, humanly constructed forms of worship. Most significantly, in [[James 1:26-27]], the term undergoes a powerful redefinition. While superficial *thrēskeía* is deemed worthless, "pure and undefiled *thrēskeía*" is declared to be active compassion for the marginalized and personal purity from worldly defilement. This reorientation underscores a fundamental biblical principle: genuine faith is not primarily expressed through external rituals, but through a life of ethical conduct, selfless love, and moral integrity, reflecting a transformed heart that truly honors God.