σεβάζομαι

I worship

Definition

The verb σεβάζομαι (sebazomai) means to worship, revere, or venerate, specifically in a religious sense. It denotes an act of profound respect and devotion directed toward a deity. In its sole New Testament occurrence in Romans 1:25, it describes the tragic human exchange of worshiping the creature rather than the Creator, highlighting a fundamental misdirection of religious devotion. The word carries a sense of awe and ceremonial reverence, implying a formal or ritualistic act of worship.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Romans 1:25. It appears in Paul's theological argument about human sin and idolatry, specifically describing those who 'worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator.' Its usage here is in a negative context, critiquing false worship. The pattern is singular and highly specific, used to contrast true and false objects of devotion.

Etymology

Σεβάζομαι (sebazomai) is a verb derived from the root σεβ- (seb-), which relates to reverence, awe, or worship. It is cognate with the more common noun σέβας (sebas), meaning 'awe' or 'reverence,' and the verb σεβόμαι (sebomai), 'to worship.' The development is from a general sense of awe to the specific, active expression of that awe through worshipful acts.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it pinpoints the core sin of idolatry: giving worship (σεβάζομαι) to anything other than God. In Romans 1:25, it underscores the doctrine of God's exclusive right to worship as Creator. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by clarifying that the biblical condemnation is not merely about belief but about the active, reverential service given to false gods or created things, contrasting sharply with the true worship (λατρεύω, latreuō) due to God alone.

In the Greco-Roman world, σεβάζομαι would be understood in the context of emperor worship, hero cults, and the veneration of various deities and statues. Paul's use directly confronts this pervasive cultural practice, redefining true worship as exclusive to the Creator God. The modern understanding of 'worship' can be broad and informal, but this term in its original setting conveyed formal, religious veneration within a polytheistic system.

προσκυνέω (proskyneō, G4352) — to bow down in homage, often physical prostration; λατρεύω (latreuō, G3000) — to serve, often in a religious or ceremonial sense; εὐσεβέω (eusebeō, G2151) — to act piously or devoutly toward gods or parents.

Word Details

Scripture References