### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **nomikós**, represented by `{{G3544}}`, refers to an expert in the (Mosaic) law, translated as **lawyer** or used adjectivally as "about the law." It is derived from the word for law, *nómos*. It appears **9 times** across **9 unique verses**, primarily in the Gospels and the epistle to Titus.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3544}}` is most often used to identify religious authorities who challenged Jesus. For instance, a **lawyer** stood up to test Jesus by asking how to inherit eternal life [[Luke 10:25]]. Jesus directly rebuked these experts, stating, "Woe unto you, **lawyers**! for ye have taken away the key of knowledge" [[Luke 11:52]]. They were also criticized for imposing heavy burdens on others that they themselves would not touch with one of their fingers [[Luke 11:46]]. In a different context, Paul warns Titus to avoid "strivings about the law," labeling them unprofitable and vain [[Titus 3:9]]. However, the term is not exclusively negative, as Paul also mentions "Zenas the **lawyer**" as a fellow Christian [[Titus 3:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role and context of the **lawyer** in the New Testament:
* `{{G3551}}` **nómos** (law): As the root word for `{{G3544}}`, this term refers to prescriptive usage, regulation, and specifically the law of Moses. The lawyers' authority was derived from their expertise in this **law** [[Galatians 2:21]].
* `{{G114}}` **athetéō** (to set aside, reject): This word describes the action of the Pharisees and lawyers who **rejected** the counsel of God for themselves by not being baptized by John [[Luke 7:30]].
* `{{G1108}}` **gnōsis** (knowledge): Jesus accused the lawyers of taking away the "key of **knowledge**," preventing others from entering into a true understanding of God's will [[Luke 11:52]].
* `{{G5412}}` **phortízō** (lade, be heavy laden): This verb highlights the hypocrisy of the lawyers, who would **lade** men with heavy burdens but offer no help themselves [[Luke 11:46]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3544}}` is primarily seen through its contrast with the teachings of Jesus.
* **Legalism vs. Spirit:** The lawyers represent an adherence to the letter of the law that misses its spirit. They are shown focusing on legal questions [[Luke 14:3]] and disputes [[Titus 3:9]] rather than the "weightier matters" of judgment and the love of God [[Luke 11:42]].
* **Obstructing Access to God:** A key theological charge against them is that they used their position not to lead people to God, but to hinder them. By taking away the "key of knowledge," they failed in their primary duty as teachers of the law [[Luke 11:52]].
* **Rejecting Divine Counsel:** The lawyers' rejection of John's baptism was seen as a rejection of God's purpose for them, demonstrating how religious authority can stand in opposition to divine revelation [[Luke 7:30]].
### Summary
In summary, **nomikós** `{{G3544}}` identifies an expert in the Mosaic law. While the term itself is neutral, its use in the Gospels paints a picture of religious figures who, despite their deep knowledge of scripture, often opposed Jesus. They serve as a biblical warning against a legalism that creates burdens, fosters pride, and ultimately obscures the path to knowing God, turning the "key of knowledge" into a barrier rather than a gate.
TRV