### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **thrēskós**, represented by `{{G2357}}`, is defined as being **religious**. Its base definition points to being "ceremonious in worship (as demonstrative), i.e. pious." This term is highly specific, appearing just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G2357}}` occurs in [[James 1:26]], where it sets up a crucial test for faith. The verse states that if someone seems to be **religious** but does not bridle their tongue, they are deceiving their own heart and their religion is "vain." This context immediately qualifies the term, suggesting that merely appearing **religious** or ceremonious is insufficient if not accompanied by self-control, particularly in speech.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its immediate context clarify the meaning of `{{G2357}}`:
* `{{G2356}}` **thrēskeía** (religion, worshipping): This noun, defined as "ceremonial observance," is the state associated with being **religious** `{{G2357}}`. In the same verse, a failure to bridle the tongue makes this **religion** vain [[James 1:26]].
* `{{G5468}}` **chalinagōgéō** (bridle): This verb describes the action that validates one's claim to be **religious**. It means "to curb (figuratively)" and is applied directly to the tongue in [[James 1:26]].
* `{{G1100}}` **glōssa** (tongue): This is the part of the body that must be bridled. Its control is presented as the primary evidence of genuine piety [[James 1:26]].
* `{{G538}}` **apatáō** (deceive): This word, meaning to "cheat, i.e. delude," describes the state of the heart when the tongue is uncontrolled. The outwardly **religious** person is, in fact, deceiving themselves [[James 1:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2357}}` is concentrated in its single, impactful use.
* **Appearance vs. Reality:** The word is used to describe someone who *seems* **religious**. This immediately draws a distinction between the external appearance of piety and the internal reality of one's faith.
* **The Mark of Sincere Faith:** The context in [[James 1:26]] establishes a tangible measure for sincere faith: the ability to **bridle** `{{G5468}}` the **tongue** `{{G1100}}`. A failure in this area negates the appearance of being **religious**.
* **The Link Between Speech and the Heart:** The passage forges a direct link between an unbridled tongue and a deceived **heart** `{{G2588}}`. It teaches that uncontrolled speech is a critical symptom of self-deception `{{G538}}`, rendering one's ceremonial worship "vain."
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2357}}` **thrēskós** is not a general term for a believer but a specific descriptor for one who appears "ceremonious in worship." Its singular appearance in scripture [[James 1:26]] serves as a pointed critique of religiosity that lacks the substance of self-control. The word challenges the believer to examine whether their outward piety is matched by an inner reality, proven by a bridled tongue and an undeceived heart.
TRV