τελείως

perfectly

Definition

The adverb τελείως (teleiōs) means 'perfectly,' 'completely,' or 'fully.' It describes an action carried out to its intended end or goal, without lack or defect. In its sole New Testament occurrence, 1 Peter 1:13, it modifies the command to 'set your hope completely' (ἐλπίσατε τελείως) on the grace to be brought at Christ's revelation, emphasizing an unwavering, wholehearted trust. This sense of totality and consummation is consistent with its root meaning of reaching an end or fulfillment.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in 1 Peter 1:13. It is employed in a hortatory context, urging believers toward a specific quality of Christian hope. The adverb intensifies the verb 'to hope,' instructing that this hope must be absolute and unreserved, fixed entirely on future grace.

Etymology

Derived from the adjective τέλειος (teleios, G5046), meaning 'perfect,' 'complete,' or 'mature,' which itself comes from the noun τέλος (telos, G5056), meaning 'end,' 'goal,' or 'purpose.' The adverbial form τελείως thus carries the core idea of doing something in a manner that is consistent with reaching its proper end or fulfillment.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, τελείως is theologically significant as it defines the nature of Christian hope. It connects to the biblical theme of perfection/completion found in Christ. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of 1 Peter 1:13 by showing that biblical hope is not a vague wish but a complete, settled confidence in God's future grace, leaving no room for divided allegiance or doubt.

In Greek thought, the concept of τελείως was associated with excellence, wholeness, and the ideal state of something. For New Testament readers, it would convey a sense of thoroughness and consummation, contrasting with partial or incomplete actions. This cultural understanding reinforces the call for total commitment in the Christian life.

πάντοτε (pantote, G3842) — means 'always' or 'at all times,' focusing on temporal constancy, whereas τελείως focuses on qualitative completeness. ὅλος (holos, G3650) — means 'whole' or 'entire,' often referring to an object in its totality, while τελείως describes the manner of an action.

Word Details

Scripture References