ψευδόμαρτυς

a false witness

Definition

ψευδόμαρτυς refers specifically to a person who gives false testimony, a false witness. In the New Testament, it denotes someone who intentionally lies or bears false witness in a legal or formal setting, particularly against another person. In Matthew 26:60, it describes those who brought false charges against Jesus during his trial. In 1 Corinthians 15:15, Paul uses it metaphorically, stating that if Christ has not been raised, the apostles would be 'false witnesses' about God for proclaiming the resurrection.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, both times in significant theological contexts. In Matthew 26:60, it appears in the narrative of Jesus' trial before the Sanhedrin, describing those who sought to convict him with fabricated testimony. In 1 Corinthians 15:15, Paul employs the term in a doctrinal argument about the resurrection, using it hypothetically to underscore the truth of the apostolic message. The usage spans both a literal, judicial scene and a metaphorical, theological application.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek adjective ψευδής (pseudēs), meaning 'false' or 'lying,' and the noun μάρτυς (martys), meaning 'witness.' Thus, it literally means 'a false witness.' The root μάρτυς later developed into the English word 'martyr,' reflecting a witness who testifies even unto death, which contrasts sharply with the deceit inherent in ψευδόμαρτυς.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it touches on the integrity of testimony about God and truth. In Matthew 26:60, false witnesses are instrumental in the unjust condemnation of Jesus, highlighting the sin of deceit in opposing God's purposes. In 1 Corinthians 15:15, the concept is central to the truth of the gospel; if the resurrection were false, the apostles' testimony would make them false witnesses against God, undermining the core of Christian faith. Understanding this term enriches reading by emphasizing the grave responsibility of bearing true witness to divine reality.

In the first-century Greco-Roman and Jewish worlds, bearing witness was a solemn act with serious legal and social consequences. False testimony was explicitly prohibited by the Ninth Commandment (Exodus 20:16) and was considered a severe moral and legal offense. A ψευδόμαρτυς in a court setting could lead to wrongful punishment, making the term carry strong connotations of injustice and moral corruption.

ψεύστης (pseustēs, G5583) — a broader term for a liar or deceiver, not necessarily in a formal witness context. διάβολος (diabolos, G1228) — meaning 'slanderer' or 'accuser,' often used for the devil, focusing on malicious accusation rather than just false testimony.

Word Details

Scripture References