### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective ψυχρός (psychrós, `{{G5593}}`) derives from the noun ψύχος (psychos, `{{G5592}}`), meaning "coldness" or "chill." Its primary semantic range encompasses both a literal and a figurative sense of "cold." Literally, it describes a low temperature, something chilly or frigid. Figuratively, it denotes a lack of warmth, passion, enthusiasm, or zeal; thus, it signifies indifference, apathy, or spiritual lifelessness. The base definition provided indicates this dual application: "chilly (literally or figuratively):--cold."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ψυχρός (psychrós, `{{G5593}}`) appears exclusively in the New Testament within the book of Revelation, specifically in the letter to the church at Laodicea. Its two occurrences are found in [[Revelation 3:15]] and [[Revelation 3:16]].
In this passage, the word is employed in a profoundly figurative sense: "I know your deeds, that you are neither [[Revelation 3:15]] cold (ψυχρός) nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither [[Revelation 3:16]] hot nor cold (ψυχρός)—I am about to spit you out of my mouth."
The context is crucial for understanding its meaning. Laodicea was known for its hot springs (good for healing) and cold springs (good for drinking), but the water delivered to the city via aqueduct often arrived lukewarm and unpalatable. Jesus uses this local imagery to describe the spiritual condition of the Laodicean church.
Here, "cold" (ψυχρός) is contrasted with "hot" (θερμός, `{{G2340}}`) and the condemned state of "lukewarm" (χλιαρός, `{{G5513}}`). While "hot" signifies fervent devotion, zeal, and active commitment to Christ, "cold" represents a complete lack of spiritual life, engagement, or commitment. It does not necessarily imply active hostility, but rather a state of total spiritual indifference, perhaps even a spiritual deadness or outright rejection of Christ. The startling statement "I wish you were either one or the other!" suggests that even a state of being utterly "cold" (clearly outside the faith) might be preferable to the hypocritical, self-sufficient, and compromising lukewarmness, as it would at least be an honest position.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding ψυχρός (psychrós, `{{G5593}}`) is enhanced by examining its linguistic relatives and conceptual counterparts:
* ψύχος (psychos, `{{G5592}}`): The root noun, meaning "coldness" or "frost."
* θερμός (thermos, `{{G2340}}`): "Hot," the direct antonym in Revelation 3, signifying spiritual fervor and zeal.
* χλιαρός (chliaros, `{{G5513}}`): "Lukewarm," the state of spiritual apathy and compromise that is most abhorrent to Christ in the Laodicean letter.
* ζέω (zeo, `{{G2204}}`): "To boil, be fervent," often used to describe spiritual zeal (e.g., [[Romans 12:11]]).
* The concepts of spiritual apathy, indifference, zeal, commitment, and the vital importance of wholehearted devotion to God are all intertwined with the meaning of ψυχρός (psychrós, `{{G5593}}`) in its biblical context.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ψυχρός (psychrós, `{{G5593}}`) is profound, primarily stemming from its usage in Revelation 3. It underscores God's absolute demand for genuine, unreserved commitment from His followers. The "cold" state, while seemingly negative, is presented as potentially less offensive than "lukewarmness" because it represents a clear, albeit ungodly, position. It lacks the pretense and self-deception of the lukewarm.
The Lord's desire for His church is not for a comfortable, compromising neutrality, but for radical devotion. To be "cold" implies a complete absence of spiritual vitality, perhaps even a state of spiritual death or active non-belief. The shocking preference for "cold" over "lukewarm" highlights the gravity of spiritual apathy and complacency within the professing church. It indicates that God values honesty and a clear stance—even if it is a stance against Him—over a deceptive, fruitless middle ground that claims allegiance but demonstrates no true passion or obedience. This serves as a powerful warning against spiritual indifference and self-sufficiency, urging believers towards fervent faith and active participation in God's will.
### Summary
ψυχρός (psychrós, `{{G5593}}`) literally means "cold" but is used figuratively in the New Testament, exclusively in [[Revelation 3:15-16]]. In this context, it describes a state of spiritual indifference or complete lack of engagement with Christ, standing in stark contrast to "hot" (fervent devotion) and the condemned state of "lukewarm" (apathetic compromise). Theologically, its usage emphasizes God's demand for wholehearted commitment from His people and His abhorrence of spiritual apathy. The Lord desires His followers to be fully devoted, rejecting any form of spiritual neutrality or pretense.
TRV