### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hypókrisis**, represented by `{{G5272}}`, refers to the act of **acting under a feigned part**. It appears 7 times in 7 unique verses in the Bible. Figuratively, it denotes deceit and is translated as "hypocrisy," "dissimulation," or "condemnation," describing a disconnect between one's appearance and inner reality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5272}}` is primarily used to identify and condemn religious pretense. Jesus directly confronts this behavior, warning his disciples to "Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is **hypocrisy**" [[Luke 12:1]]. He describes the Pharisees as appearing righteous to men but being inwardly "full of **hypocrisy** and iniquity" [[Matthew 23:28]]. The term is also used to describe insincere actions within the church, as when Paul points out that even Barnabas was carried away by the **dissimulation** of Peter and other Jews [[Galatians 2:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of hypocrisy and deceit:
* `{{G4942}}` **synypokrínomai** (dissemble with): This word means "to act hypocritically in concert with" and is used to describe how other Jews followed Peter's lead in the incident at Antioch [[Galatians 2:13]].
* `{{G1855}}` **éxōthen** (external(-ly)): Defined as "external(-ly)," this term is used to establish the contrast central to hypocrisy, where one might **outwardly** appear righteous while being corrupt within [[Matthew 23:28]].
* `{{G5573}}` **pseudológos** (speaking lies): Meaning "mendacious," this term is directly linked to hypocrisy in the context of false teachers who promulgate erroneous doctrine [[1 Timothy 4:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5272}}` is significant, highlighting a condition antithetical to genuine faith.
* **Appearance versus Reality:** Hypocrisy is a state of spiritual contradiction. Jesus condemned those who **outwardly** appear `{{G5316}}` **righteous** `{{G1342}}` but are inwardly full of **hypocrisy** `{{G5272}}` and **iniquity** `{{G458}}` [[Matthew 23:28]].
* **Corrupting Influence:** Described as "leaven," hypocrisy is presented as a corrupting agent that can spread and influence others, as seen when Barnabas was "carried away" by it [[Galatians 2:13]].
* **Seared Conscience:** The practice of hypocrisy is linked to a deadened moral compass. It is associated with those who are **speaking lies** `{{G5573}}` and have their **conscience** `{{G4893}}` seared [[1 Timothy 4:2]].
* **Hindrance to Piety:** Believers are commanded to lay aside `{{G659}}` all **malice** `{{G2549}}`, **guile** `{{G1388}}`, and **hypocrisies** `{{G5272}}` to pursue spiritual purity [[1 Peter 2:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5272}}` is not merely a label for pretense but describes a profound spiritual failing. It signifies a dangerous opposition between outward piety and inward corruption. The term is a cornerstone in biblical warnings against insincerity, calling for an integrity where one's inner character and outward actions are unified in truth.
TRV