### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hagiázō**, represented by `{{G37}}`, means **to make holy, purify, or consecrate**. It appears **29 times** across **26 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from the word for holy, ἅγιος, its usage extends from ceremonial purification to the mental act of venerating or hallowing something as sacred.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G37}}` is used to describe the process of being set apart for a divine purpose. It is a central element of prayer, as seen in the plea, "**Hallowed be** thy name" ([[Matthew 6:9]], [[Luke 11:2]]). The word is directly linked to the work of Jesus Christ, who **sanctifies** His people through the "offering of the body" [[Hebrews 10:10]] and with His own "blood" [[Hebrews 13:12]]. The truth of God's word is also an agent of this process, as Jesus prayed, "**Sanctify** them through thy truth" [[John 17:17]]. For believers, being **sanctified** is a foundational aspect of their identity in Christ, alongside being washed and justified [[1 Corinthians 6:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the concept of holiness and purification:
* `{{G40}}` **hágios** (holy, saint): As the root of **hagiázō**, this word describes the state of being sacred or consecrated. The two are linked in the call for one who is **holy** `{{G40}}` to **be holy** `{{G37}}` still [[Revelation 22:11]].
* `{{G225}}` **alḗtheia** (truth): This term is identified as a primary means of sanctification. Jesus states that God's **word** is **truth**, and it is through this **truth** that believers are **sanctified** [[John 17:17]].
* `{{G129}}` **haîma** (blood): The **blood** of Jesus is presented as the price and means of sanctification. Jesus suffered to **sanctify** the people with His own **blood** [[Hebrews 13:12]], and the **blood** of the covenant is that by which a person was **sanctified** [[Hebrews 10:29]].
* `{{G2511}}` **katharízō** (to cleanse): Often used alongside **hagiázō**, this word emphasizes the purifying aspect of being made holy. Christ's purpose for the church is that He might **sanctify** and **cleanse** it [[Ephesians 5:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G37}}` is centered on the divine act of setting believers apart for God.
* **A Divine Act:** Sanctification originates with God. Believers are described as those "**sanctified** by God the Father" [[Jude 1:1]] and Christ is the one "whom the Father hath **sanctified**" [[John 10:36]]. This act qualifies them for an inheritance [[Acts 20:32]].
* **Accomplished through Christ's Offering:** The basis for a believer's sanctification is the singular work of Christ. It is "through the **offering** of the body of Jesus Christ once for all" that believers are **sanctified** [[Hebrews 10:10]]. This one offering has "perfected for ever them that are **sanctified**" [[Hebrews 10:14]].
* **Mediated by the Word and Spirit:** The application of holiness occurs through specific means. God's word is the instrument of truth that **sanctifies** [[John 17:17]], a process described as a "washing of water by the word" [[Ephesians 5:26]]. The offering of the Gentiles is made acceptable by "being **sanctified** by the Holy Ghost" [[Romans 15:16]].
* **A Call to Consecration:** While a divine act, sanctification also involves a human response. Believers are commanded to "**sanctify** the Lord God" in their hearts [[1 Peter 3:15]] and to purge themselves to become a "**vessel** unto honour, **sanctified**" and prepared for good works [[2 Timothy 2:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G37}}` is a crucial term defining the process by which something or someone is made holy. It is not merely a ceremonial cleansing but a definitive act of being consecrated and set apart for God's purposes. This sanctification is initiated by God the Father, paid for by the blood of Jesus Christ, and applied by the Holy Spirit through the truth of God's word. It establishes the believer's holy standing and calls them to live a life that reflects that consecrated status.
TRV