ἁγιωσύνη

a holy or sanctified state

Definition

ἁγιωσύνη (agiōsynē) refers to the state or quality of being holy, specifically the condition of being set apart for God and characterized by moral purity. It denotes the inherent holiness that belongs to God Himself, as seen in Romans 1:4, where it describes the divine power and holy nature of Jesus as the Son of God. In 2 Corinthians 7:1, it is the holiness believers are called to perfect in their lives, and in 1 Thessalonians 3:13, it is the blameless holiness required for the Lord's return. Thus, it encompasses both God's intrinsic holiness and the sanctified state He produces in His people.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only three times in the New Testament, always in Paul's letters, and always in contexts emphasizing practical Christian living and eschatological hope. In Romans 1:4, it describes the resurrection as a declaration of Jesus' holy nature. In 2 Corinthians 7:1, it is the goal of cleansing from defilement. In 1 Thessalonians 3:13, it is the condition of heart required for the coming of Christ. Each usage connects holiness to God's power and the believer's ethical response.

Etymology

Derived from the adjective ἅγιος (hagios, G40), meaning 'holy' or 'set apart,' with the abstract noun suffix -σύνη (-synē), which forms nouns indicating a state or quality. Thus, ἁγιωσύνη literally means 'holiness' as a condition or attribute. It is not from ἀ- + 'giōsynē' as sometimes mistakenly parsed; the root is firmly ἅγιος, related to concepts of consecration and purity in Greek religious thought.

Semantic Range

This word is crucial for understanding biblical sanctification. It highlights holiness not just as an action but as a state of being that originates from God and is to be manifested in believers. It bridges Christology (Romans 1:4) and ethics (2 Corinthians 7:1, 1 Thessalonians 3:13), showing that Jesus' holy nature empowers Christian holiness. Grasping this Greek term enriches reading by emphasizing that holiness is a definitive, God-given quality essential for fellowship with God and readiness for eternity.

In the Greco-Roman world, holiness (ἁγιωσύνη) carried connotations of being dedicated to a deity and ritually pure, but the New Testament infuses it with deeper moral and relational meaning rooted in Old Testament covenant theology. Unlike pagan concepts often limited to ritual or temple spaces, biblical holiness encompasses the whole person and community, reflecting God's own character. This redefined holiness as an internal state of heart and life, set apart for the one true God.

ἁγιασμός (hagiasmos, G38) — the process or act of making holy; sanctification. ἁγιότης (hagiotēs, G41) — the quality of holiness, more abstract, used in Hebrews 12:10. ὁσιότης (hosiotēs, G3742) — piety or devoutness, emphasizing reverence (Luke 1:75, Ephesians 4:24).

Word Details

Scripture References