### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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.
TRV