### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pseûsma**, represented by `{{G5582}}`, translates to **a fabrication, i.e. falsehood** or **lie**. This term is exceptionally rare in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. Its singular use places a significant emphasis on the context in which it is found, highlighting a specific theological argument about truth and deception.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G5582}}` is in [[Romans 3:7]], where it is used within a rhetorical question: "For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my **lie** unto his glory; why yet am I also judged as a sinner?" In this passage, the word is part of a hypothetical argument questioning whether a falsehood that ultimately glorifies God by highlighting His truthfulness should still be condemned. The **lie** `{{G5582}}` is presented as a human action set in direct contrast to the truth of God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the surrounding verse help frame the meaning of `{{G5582}}`:
* `{{G1063}}` **gár** (for): This particle is used for assigning a reason and introduces the logical premise of the argument in which the **lie** is mentioned [[Romans 3:7]].
* `{{G1487}}` **ei** (if): As a particle of conditionality, this word establishes the hypothetical nature of the statement, framing the concept of a **lie** serving God's glory as a proposition to be examined rather than a statement of fact [[Romans 3:7]].
* `{{G225}}` **alḗtheia** (truth): This word stands as the direct opposite of `{{G5582}}` in the passage. It represents the unwavering and absolute nature of God, which is contrasted with the human **lie** [[Romans 3:7]]. Jesus identifies Himself as "the **truth**" [[John 14:6]], establishing its divine importance.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5582}}` is derived entirely from its unique context in Romans.
* **Contrast between Human Sin and Divine Glory:** The term is used to explore the relationship between human falsehood and God's truth. The argument posed is whether a person's **lie** `{{G5582}}` can be justified if it makes God's truth appear more glorious by comparison [[Romans 3:7]].
* **The Inherent Nature of Falsehood:** Paul uses the word **lie** to dismantle the idea that the ends can justify the means. By framing the act as a **lie**, it is inherently defined as a sin, which is why the speaker in the verse is still judged as a "sinner" regardless of the outcome.
* **Foundation of God's Judgment:** The use of `{{G5582}}` within this argument reinforces the principle that God's judgment is based on the intrinsic nature of an act, not just its consequences. A **lie** remains a **lie**, and therefore a sin, even if it is juxtaposed against God's abounding truth.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5582}}` **pseûsma** is a specific and potent term for a **lie**. Though it appears only once, its placement in [[Romans 3:7]] makes it a crucial component of a sophisticated theological argument. It functions to starkly contrast human fabrication with divine truth, ultimately reinforcing the biblical position that falsehood is inherently sinful, irrespective of any perceived positive outcome. Its significance comes not from its frequency but from its precise role in defining the boundary between human sin and God's glory.
TRV