### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pseudḗs**, represented by `{{G5571}}`, refers to that which is **untrue**, **deceitful**, or **wicked**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible and is translated as **false** or **liar**. The term carries the core meaning of being erroneous and intentionally misleading.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G5571}}` is applied in critical contexts of truth and deception. It is used to label "**false** witnesses" who were set up to speak blasphemous words against the law and holy place [[Acts 6:13]]. The word also identifies those who falsely claim religious authority, as the church in Ephesus is commended for testing those who claimed to be apostles and finding them to be **liars** [[Revelation 2:2]]. Ultimately, the term describes a category of people who face final judgment, with "all **liars**" having their part in the lake of fire [[Revelation 21:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader context for the concept of falsehood:
* `{{G3144}}` **mártys** (witness): Defined as "a witness (literally (judicially) or figuratively (genitive case)); by analogy, a 'martyr'". This term is directly qualified by `{{G5571}}` to describe the "**false** witnesses" brought against Stephen [[Acts 6:13]].
* `{{G652}}` **apóstolos** (apostle): Meaning "a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the Gospel; officially a commissioner of Christ ('apostle')". This is the title falsely claimed by those who are ultimately found to be **liars** [[Revelation 2:2]].
* `{{G571}}` **ápistos** (unbelieving): This term for one who is "disbelieving, i.e. without Christian faith" or "untrustworthy" appears alongside "**liars**" in the list of those who face the second death [[Revelation 21:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5571}}` is demonstrated in its consequences.
* **Corruption of Justice:** The word is used to describe "**false** witnesses" `{{G5571}}` `{{G3144}}` whose testimony consists of "**blasphemous** words" `{{G989}}`, showing how deceit is used to attack divine law and holy institutions [[Acts 6:13]].
* **False Religious Authority:** It is used to expose individuals who claim to be **apostles** `{{G652}}` but are not, identifying them as **liars** `{{G5571}}`. This highlights the necessity of testing claims of spiritual leadership [[Revelation 2:2]].
* **Ultimate Condemnation:** Being a **liar** is listed as a character trait that results in eternal judgment. In Revelation, "all **liars**" are grouped with the **fearful** `{{G1169}}`, **unbelieving** `{{G571}}`, **murderers** `{{G5406}}`, and **idolaters** `{{G1496}}`, sealing their fate in the "lake which burneth with fire" [[Revelation 21:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5571}}` is a significant term defining more than just simple untruth. It points to a deliberate and wicked deceit that corrupts legal testimony, undermines true religious authority, and is counted among the most serious sins. The uses of **pseudḗs** in scripture demonstrate that falsehood has grave consequences, positioning it as a fundamental opposition to the truth that leads to judgment.
TRV