from φύω; growth (by germination or expansion), i.e. (by implication) natural production (lineal descent); by extension, a genus or sort; figuratively, native disposition, constitution or usage:--(man-)kind, nature(-al).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **phýsis**, represented by `{{G5449}}`, refers to **nature**, native disposition, or a genus or kind. It appears 14 times across 11 unique verses. The term describes the inherent constitution of a thing, from its natural production and lineal descent to its established usage or kind. In scripture, it is used to describe the fundamental state of humanity, the created order, and the divine essence that believers can partake in.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5449}}` is used to explain several key ideas. It defines the innate spiritual condition of humanity, stating that people are "by **nature** the children of wrath" [[Ephesians 2:3]]. The term also denotes lineal descent or ethnicity, as when differentiating between "Jews by **nature**" and Gentiles [[Galatians 2:15]]. It establishes a standard of created order, which can be transgressed, as seen when sinful behavior is described as being "against **nature**" [[Romans 1:26]]. Conversely, it can refer to an innate moral understanding, where Gentiles without the law sometimes do "by **nature** the things contained in the law" [[Romans 2:14]]. It is also used to classify creation, as in "every **kind** of beasts" [[James 3:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of **nature**:
* `{{G5446}}` **physikós** (natural): This adjective, derived from **phýsis**, describes what is instinctive or according to the established order. It is used to describe the "natural use" that was exchanged for what is "against nature" [[Romans 1:26]].
* `{{G1484}}` **éthnos** (Gentile, nation): Often used in contrast to those who are Jews by **nature** [[Galatians 2:15]], this term for a race or tribe helps define identity based on lineage versus an innate moral state [[Romans 2:14]].
* `{{G3551}}` **nómos** (law): The concept of the written **law** is frequently contrasted with **nature**. Those without the **law** can sometimes follow its principles by **nature**, making the law a standard unto themselves [[Romans 2:14]].
* `{{G2304}}` **theîos** (divine): This word is used to describe the ultimate transformation available to believers, who are promised they can become "partakers of the divine **nature**" [[2 Peter 1:4]], escaping the world's corruption.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5449}}` is significant, outlining the human condition and its remedy.
* **The Fallen State:** The concept of being "by **nature** the children of wrath" establishes the universal sinful condition of humanity, separate from God [[Ephesians 2:3]]. This highlights the need for salvation.
* **The Divine Promise:** Believers are offered an escape from the corruption of the world and a share in God's own being, becoming "partakers of the divine **nature**" [[2 Peter 1:4]].
* **Created Order:** The term is used to define a divinely intended order. The grafting of a wild olive branch (Gentiles) is "contrary to **nature**," highlighting the miraculous aspect of salvation [[Romans 11:24]], while certain sins are a violation of what is "against **nature**" [[Romans 1:26]].
* **Innate vs. Revealed Law:** The idea that some do by **nature** what the **law** requires points to a universal moral conscience given by God [[Romans 2:14]], which holds all humanity accountable.
### Summary
In summary, **phýsis** `{{G5449}}` carries deep theological meaning beyond a simple definition of the natural world. It defines our inherent condition, our lineage, and the created order itself. It powerfully contrasts humanity's fallen state as "children of wrath" by **nature** with the promise given to believers of becoming partakers of the "divine **nature**." This word charts the biblical narrative of redemption, moving from a natural state of corruption to a supernatural state of grace.
TRV