The Greek word hypokritḗs, represented by G5273, originally describes an actor playing a role on a stage. It appears 20 times across 20 unique verses in the Bible, where it is used figuratively to mean a dissembler or a "hypocrite." The term defines someone who assumes an outward character that is not reflective of their true inner state.
In the biblical narrative, G5273 is used almost exclusively by Jesus to condemn religious leaders for their pretense. He repeatedly rebukes the scribes and Pharisees as hypocrites for shutting up the kingdom of heaven from others Matthew 23:13. They are described as meticulously tithing herbs while omitting the more important matters of the law, such as judgment, mercy, and faith Matthew 23:23. This hypocrisy is illustrated as cleaning the outside of a cup while the inside is full of extortion G724 and excess G192 Matthew 23:25. Similarly, Jesus warns his followers not to perform acts of piety like the hypocrites do, who pray G4336 in the streets simply to be seen by men Matthew 6:5.
Several related words illuminate the nature of hypocrisy:
- G5316 phaínō (to appear, seem, be seen): This word is central to the hypocrite's motivation. They perform their religious duties, such as fasting, so that they may appear to men Matthew 6:16.
- G4392 próphasis (pretext, pretence): This highlights the deceptive motive behind the actions. Hypocrites are condemned because for a pretence they make long prayers while they devour G2719 widows' houses Matthew 23:14.
- G2588 kardía (heart): This represents the inner reality that contradicts the hypocrite's outward show. Jesus quotes Esaias, saying that hypocrites honor God with their lips, but their heart is far from him Mark 7:6.
- G1227 diablépō (to see clearly): This is presented as the antidote to hypocrisy. A hypocrite is told to first remove the beam from his own eye, and then he will see clearly to remove the mote G2595 from his brother's eye Matthew 7:5.
The theological weight of G5273 is a profound warning against external-only religion.
- Appearance Versus Reality: Hypocrisy is defined by a disconnect between outward appearance and inner truth. Jesus compares hypocrites to whited G2867 sepulchres G5028, which appear beautiful G5611 on the outside but are filled with dead G3498 men's bones and all uncleanness G167 Matthew 23:27.
- Misplaced Priorities: A hypocrite is one who can discern G1381 the face G4383 of the sky but cannot discern the signs of the times Matthew 16:3. They focus on the minutiae of religious law while neglecting its core principles.
- Obstructing the Kingdom: Hypocrisy is not a victimless sin. Jesus condemns the scribes and Pharisees as hypocrites for not entering the kingdom of heaven themselves and not allowing others to enter G1525 either Matthew 23:13.
- Divine Judgment: The fate of a hypocrite is severe. Jesus warns that the unfaithful servant will have his portion G3313 appointed with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping G2805 and gnashing G1030 of teeth G3599 Matthew 24:51.
In summary, G5273 moves beyond a simple insult to describe a critical spiritual failure. It characterizes a person who is an "actor" in their faith, whose outward performances of piety are a mask for an inward reality of wickedness G4189 and a heart G2588 that is far from God. The term serves as a stark warning against seeking the glory G1392 of men rather than genuine righteousness, demonstrating that God judges the inner state, not just the outward show.
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