### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pseûdos**, represented by `{{G5579}}`, defines a **falsehood**, **lie**, or **lying**. It appears 9 times across 9 unique verses, establishing it as a concept fundamentally opposed to divine truth and character. It is not merely an untruth but a spiritual force connected to deception and rebellion against God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5579}}` is presented in stark contrast to the truth of God. Its origin is explicitly tied to the devil, who is called "the father of it" [[John 8:44]]. This passage also states that the devil was a murderer from the beginning and has no truth in him. The concept is central to the idea of idolatry, where people "changed the truth of God into a **lie**" and worshipped the creature over the Creator [[Romans 1:25]]. Believers are commanded to put away **lying** and speak truth with their neighbors [[Ephesians 4:25]]. The consequences for embracing falsehood are severe, as nothing that "maketh a **lie**" will enter the New Jerusalem ([[Revelation 21:27]], [[Revelation 22:15]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature and source of falsehood:
* `{{G5583}}` **pseústēs** (a falsifier:--liar): This is the one who speaks a `{{G5579}}`. The devil is described not only as the father of the lie, but also as a **liar** himself [[John 8:44]].
* `{{G225}}` **alḗtheia** (truth): This word is the direct opposite of `{{G5579}}`. Scripture establishes an absolute division, stating that "no **lie** is of the **truth**" [[1 John 2:21]] and that people are judged for exchanging the **truth** of God for a **lie** [[Romans 1:25]].
* `{{G1228}}` **diábolos** (a traducer; specially, Satan:--false accuser, devil, slanderer): The source of the lie is identified as the **devil**, who is the father of anyone who rejects the truth [[John 8:44]].
* `{{G4106}}` **plánē** (a straying from orthodoxy or piety:--deceit, to deceive, delusion, error): This is the state that results from believing a `{{G5579}}`. God sends a "strong **delusion**" so that those who reject the truth will believe a **lie** [[2 Thessalonians 2:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5579}}` is significant, highlighting a core spiritual conflict.
* **The Source of Falsehood:** The concept of the lie is sourced directly in the character of the devil, who is identified as its father. When he speaks a **lie**, he speaks of his own nature because there is no truth in him [[John 8:44]].
* **Foundation of Idolatry:** A pivotal act of rebellion is exchanging the **truth** of God for a **lie**, which results in the worship `{{G4573}}` and service `{{G3000}}` of the creature rather than the Creator [[Romans 1:25]].
* **Eschatological Deception:** The end times will be marked by the working `{{G1753}}` of Satan with "lying `{{G5579}}` wonders" [[2 Thessalonians 2:9]]. This deception culminates in God sending a strong delusion for people to believe the **lie** [[2 Thessalonians 2:11]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The embrace of falsehood leads to exclusion from God's presence. Those who love and make a **lie** are listed alongside murderers `{{G5406}}`, sorcerers `{{G5333}}`, and idolaters `{{G1496}}` who remain outside the holy city [[Revelation 22:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5579}}` is far more than a simple untruth. It is a foundational element of evil, originating with the devil and standing in direct opposition to God, who is truth. Its presence in scripture defines the nature of idolatry, the character of satanic deception, and the basis for divine judgment. The choice between the truth of God and the lie of the devil is presented as a defining aspect of one's spiritual allegiance and eternal destiny.
TRV