from ψυχή; sensitive, i.e. animate (in distinction on the one hand from πνευματικός, which is the higher or renovated nature; and on the other from φυσικός, which is the lower or bestial nature):--natural, sensual.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **psychikós**, represented by `{{G5591}}`, is defined as **natural** or **sensual**. It appears **6 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from the word for soul (ψυχή), it describes the animate or sensitive nature, standing in contrast to the higher, renovated nature which is **spiritual** (πνευματικός).
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5591}}` consistently describes a state or being that is devoid of the divine Spirit. It is used to characterize the "**natural** man" who cannot receive the things of the Spirit of God, considering them foolishness [[1 Corinthians 2:14]]. In a similar vein, wisdom that is not from above is described as "earthly, **sensual**, devilish" [[James 3:15]]. This state is explicitly linked to the absence of the Holy Spirit, as seen in the description of certain individuals as "**sensual**, having not the Spirit" [[Jude 1:19]]. The term also contrasts the mortal body with the resurrection body, stating that a "**natural** body" is sown, but a "spiritual body" is raised [[1 Corinthians 15:44]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G5591}}` by providing direct contrast or association:
* `{{G4152}}` **pneumatikós** (spiritual): This word for non-carnal or regenerate nature is the direct counterpart to **psychikós**. This contrast is made explicit when discussing the body that is sown as "natural" but raised as "spiritual" [[1 Corinthians 15:46]].
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (spirit): As the root of what is spiritual, the presence or absence of the **pneûma** is critical. The "sensual" are defined as those "having not the **Spirit**" [[Jude 1:19]], and the "natural man" cannot understand the things of the **Spirit** of God [[1 Corinthians 2:14]].
* `{{G1919}}` **epígeios** (earthly): This term, meaning worldly, is used in direct association with **psychikós**. Wisdom that is "sensual" is also described as "earthly" [[James 3:15]].
* `{{G1141}}` **daimoniṓdēs** (devilish): Used alongside "earthly" and "sensual," this term further characterizes the nature of wisdom that does not originate from God [[James 3:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5591}}` lies in its clear distinction between two states of existence.
* **The Natural vs. The Spiritual:** The primary use of **psychikós** is to define the unregenerate person or nature. The "**natural** man" operates purely on a human, soul-level and is therefore incapable of knowing or discerning spiritual things without the aid of the Spirit [[1 Corinthians 2:14]].
* **Source of Wisdom:** The term is used to evaluate the origin of wisdom. Wisdom that is **sensual** is not from above but is worldly and "devilish," contrasting sharply with the wisdom that comes from God [[James 3:15]].
* **Mortal and Resurrected Bodies:** `{{G5591}}` is essential for understanding the transformation from our present life to the life to come. The "**natural** body" is what we have now, while the "spiritual body" is the promise of the resurrection [[1 Corinthians 15:44]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5591}}` is a crucial theological term that defines the boundaries of the soul-driven life apart from divine influence. It is not merely a word for "natural" in a neutral sense, but specifically denotes a state that is un-spiritual, earthly, and incapable of grasping the things of God. It draws a clear line between the "natural man" and the "spiritual" one, a distinction central to understanding salvation and resurrection.
TRV