### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pseúdomai**, represented by `{{G5574}}`, is used to mean **to utter an untruth or attempt to deceive by falsehood**. It appears 13 times across 12 unique verses in the Bible. The term specifically defines the act of lying or being intentionally false.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G5574}}` is presented in direct opposition to the nature of God, with [[Hebrews 6:18]] stating it is "impossible for God to **lie**." The term is used to describe deception against God Himself, as when Ananias was questioned for choosing "to **lie** to the Holy Ghost" [[Acts 5:3]]. Lying is also framed as an action against the truth, with believers warned not to "**lie** not against the truth" [[James 3:14]] when strife is in their hearts. It is also found in the context of false accusation, where followers are called blessed when others "**falsely**" say all manner of evil against them [[Matthew 5:11]]. The command for believers is direct: "**Lie** not one to another" [[Colossians 3:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the act of lying:
* `{{G225}}` **alḗtheia** (truth): This word stands as the direct opposite of falsehood. It is often contrasted with `{{G5574}}`, as in [[1 John 1:6]], where those who walk in darkness **lie** and "do not the **truth**," and in Paul's assertions that he speaks the **truth** and does not **lie** ([[Romans 9:1]]; [[1 Timothy 2:7]]).
* `{{G3004}}` **légō** (to "lay" forth, i.e. (figuratively) relate): This word for speaking is used to describe those who **say** they are Jews but "**do lie**" [[Revelation 3:9]]. It is also used by Paul when he affirms, "I **say** the truth in Christ, I **lie** not" [[Romans 9:1]].
* `{{G3679}}` **oneidízō** (to defame, i.e. rail at, chide, taunt): This term is used alongside `{{G5574}}` in [[Matthew 5:11]], where being blessed includes enduring when people "**revile** you" and speak evil against you **falsely**.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5574}}` is significant, highlighting a fundamental conflict between divine character and sinful action.
* **The Nature of God:** Truthfulness is an immutable attribute of God. It is declared "impossible for God to **lie**" [[Hebrews 6:18]], establishing a benchmark of perfect integrity. Paul repeatedly calls on God as a witness to his own truthfulness, stating that God knows "I **lie** not" ([[2 Corinthians 11:31]]; [[Galatians 1:20]]).
* **The Source of Falsehood:** Lying is explicitly connected to Satan, who filled Ananias's heart "to **lie** to the Holy Ghost" [[Acts 5:3]]. Those who falsely claim an identity and "**do lie**" are identified as belonging to "the synagogue of Satan" [[Revelation 3:9]].
* **The Believer and Truth:** Honesty is a mark of the Christian life. To claim fellowship with God while living in darkness is to "**lie**" [[1 John 1:6]]. The command to "**Lie** not one to another" is tied to putting off the old man and his deeds [[Colossians 3:9]]. Paul's apostolic authority is reinforced by his repeated claims to speak the truth and not **lie** ([[Romans 9:1]]; [[1 Timothy 2:7]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5574}}` is not merely about incorrect speech but is a term loaded with theological importance. It defines a core aspect of sin by contrasting it with the very nature of God, for whom it is impossible to lie. The use of this word illustrates the incompatibility of falsehood with a life of faith, framing lying as an act against God, against the truth, and against the community of believers.
TRV