ψεύδομαι

I lie

Definition

The verb ψεύδομαι fundamentally means 'to lie' or 'to speak falsely,' involving deliberate deception in speech. It can describe giving false testimony against someone (Matthew 5:11) or lying to other people, as seen in the command to not lie to one another (Colossians 3:9). In a more intense sense, it denotes lying to or deceiving God Himself, a grave act highlighted in the story of Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:3-4). The word is also used in solemn oaths of truthfulness, where the speaker strongly asserts they are not lying, as in Paul's declarations (Romans 9:1, Galatians 1:20).

Biblical Usage

ψεύδομαι appears in various contexts across the New Testament. It is used in ethical teachings, such as Jesus' Beatitudes about being falsely accused (Matthew 5:11) and apostolic instructions against lying (Colossians 3:9). It features prominently in narrative for dramatic, sinful deception, as in Acts 5. The Apostle Paul frequently employs it in his epistles to preface solemn, truthful statements about his apostleship or his feelings, adding weight to his claims (Romans 9:1, 2 Corinthians 11:31, Galatians 1:20, 1 Timothy 2:7).

Etymology

Derived from the Greek root ψευδ-, meaning 'false' or 'lying.' It is the middle/passive form of the verb, related to the adjective ψευδής (false) and the noun ψεῦδος (a lie, G5579). This root is found in many Greek compounds, such as ψευδόχριστος (false Christ) and ψευδαπόστολος (false apostle).

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it touches on the nature of truth and deception, which are central to biblical ethics and the character of God, who cannot lie (Titus 1:2). Lying is presented as a serious sin against both community (Colossians 3:9) and God (Acts 5:4), originating from the devil, who is the 'father of lies' (John 8:44). Conversely, Paul's use of 'I do not lie' underscores the divine authority and reliability of apostolic testimony, connecting truthfulness to the integrity of the gospel message. Understanding this Greek term highlights the stark biblical contrast between falsehood and God's truth.

In the Greco-Roman world, while lying was generally disapproved of, certain contexts (like rhetoric or diplomacy) could see it as more acceptable or strategic. The New Testament's use of ψεύδομαι, however, consistently reflects a Jewish and Christian ethical framework that views all intentional falsehood as morally wrong, a violation of the ninth commandment, and an offense against a God of truth. The severe consequence for lying to the Holy Spirit in Acts 5 underscores the early church's high view of divine honesty and communal integrity.

ἀπατάω (apataō, G538) — to deceive or cheat, often involving trickery beyond just speech. ψεῦδος (pseudos, G5579) — the noun 'a lie' or 'falsehood,' the thing that is spoken. πλανάω (planaō, G4105) — to lead astray or cause to wander, a broader term for deception that can include doctrinal error.

Word Details

Scripture References