### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pseudomártyr**, represented by `{{G5575}}`, is defined as a spurious witness or a bearer of untrue testimony. It appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is formed from the Greek words for "spurious" and "witness," directly translating to its meaning as a **false witness**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5575}}` is used in critical moments concerning the person of Jesus Christ. During his trial, many **false witnesses** were brought forward in an attempt to secure a conviction, though their testimony was insufficient until two finally came [[Matthew 26:60]]. The apostle Paul also uses the term, stating that if Christ had not been raised from the dead, then the apostles themselves would be found to be **false witnesses** of God, for they testified that God did raise him [[1 Corinthians 15:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of bearing witness:
* `{{G2147}}` **heurískō** (to find (literally or figuratively):--find, get, obtain, perceive, see): This verb is directly connected to the search for testimony. In the trial of Jesus, they **found** none among the many false witnesses [[Matthew 26:60]], and Paul states the apostles would be **found** false witnesses if the resurrection were not true [[1 Corinthians 15:15]].
* `{{G3140}}` **martyréō** (to be a witness, i.e. testify): This is the act of giving a report or evidence. It stands in direct contrast to being a `{{G5575}}`. Paul states that the apostles have **testified** about God raising Christ [[1 Corinthians 15:15]], a testimony that would be false if the event did not happen.
* `{{G5547}}` **Christós** (anointed, i.e. the Messiah, an epithet of Jesus:--Christ.): The testimony concerning **Christ** is the subject at the heart of the matter. The apostles are accused of being false witnesses specifically in relation to their testimony about God raising **Christ** from the dead [[1 Corinthians 15:15]].
* `{{G1161}}` **dé** (a primary particle (adversative or continuative); but, and, etc.): This particle shows contrast or progression in the narrative. In [[Matthew 26:60]], after many false witnesses came, the text notes, "**But** found none," marking a turning point before two others appeared.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5575}}` is significant, highlighting the importance of truthful testimony about God.
* **Foundation of Christian Testimony:** The term's use in [[1 Corinthians 15:15]] establishes the high stakes of the apostolic message. The claim of the resurrection is so central that if it were untrue, the apostles would be guilty of being **false witnesses** against God himself.
* **Opposition to Divine Truth:** The appearance of **false witnesses** at the trial of Jesus demonstrates the deliberate effort to condemn him using untrue testimony [[Matthew 26:60]]. It illustrates a direct opposition to the truth embodied in Christ.
* **The Integrity of the Resurrection:** The link between being a `{{G5575}}` and the resurrection of Christ underscores that the resurrection is a historical, verifiable event. The apostles' status as true witnesses is entirely dependent on its reality.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5575}}` is more than a simple term for lying; it refers specifically to the act of bearing untrue testimony in a legal or theological context. Its use in scripture is concentrated on pivotal events, namely the condemnation of Jesus and the validation of his resurrection. The word powerfully emphasizes that the Christian faith is built not on myths or feelings, but on the truthfulness of the witness concerning the works of God in Christ.
TRV