### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pseústēs**, represented by `{{G5583}}`, defines a falsifier or a **liar**. It appears **10 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible. The term goes beyond simple untruthfulness to describe a state of being fundamentally opposed to truth, often in a spiritual or moral context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5583}}` is used to identify profound spiritual and moral failures. Its origin is attributed to the devil, who is called a **liar** and the father of lies [[John 8:44]]. The term is applied to individuals whose actions contradict their profession of faith, such as one who claims to love God but hates his brother [[1 John 4:20]], or one who says they know God but does not keep His commandments [[1 John 2:4]]. A person is also called a **liar** for denying foundational truths, specifically one who "denieth that Jesus is the Christ" [[1 John 2:22]]. The term is also used in a general sense to contrast human fallibility with divine perfection, as in the statement "let God be true, but every man a **liar**" [[Romans 3:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of falsehood and its opposition to truth:
* `{{G5579}}` **pseûdos** (lie, lying): This is the falsehood itself, the product of a liar. The devil is not only a **liar** `{{G5583}}`, but also the father of the **lie** `{{G5579}}` [[John 8:44]].
* `{{G225}}` **alḗtheia** (truth): This word represents the direct opposite of a lie. A **liar** is defined as someone in whom the **truth** is not present ([[John 8:44]], [[1 John 2:4]]).
* `{{G720}}` **arnéomai** (deny, refuse): This action is explicitly linked to being a **liar**. One who **denieth** that Jesus is the Christ is identified as a **liar** and an antichrist [[1 John 2:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5583}}` is significant, highlighting the conflict between truth and deception.
* **The Nature of Deception:** The term establishes falsehood as originating with the devil, who is labeled a **liar** from the beginning [[John 8:44]]. This frames lying not as a minor flaw but as an expression of a nature opposed to God.
* **The Incoherence of False Profession:** A person is labeled a **liar** when their life is inconsistent with their stated beliefs. Claiming to love God while hating a brother is a defining characteristic of a **liar** [[1 John 4:20]].
* **The Rejection of God:** Denying God's revelation makes one a **liar**. This occurs when someone denies the divinity of Jesus [[1 John 2:22]] or when they claim to be without sin, thereby making God a **liar** [[1 John 1:10]]. Not believing God's testimony concerning His Son is to make Him a **liar** [[1 John 5:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5583}}` is more than an accusation of dishonesty. It is a defining term for a character and identity rooted in opposition to God's truth. From its ultimate source in the devil to its expression in a hypocritical life or the denial of Christ, being a **liar** signifies a fundamental break from the reality defined by God and His word.
TRV