The meaning of “κύριος”
Understanding kýrios reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
God, Lord, master, Sir. - supreme in authority, i.e. (as noun) controller - by implication, Master (as a respectful titl...
κύριος
God, Lord, master, Sir. - supreme in authority, i.e. (as noun) controller - by implication, Master (as a respectful title)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 18:31 | “So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done.” Word: κύριος (kýrios) | |
| Romans 12:11 | “Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;” Word: κύριος (kýrios) | |
| Philippians 3:8 | “Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,” Word: κύριος (kýrios) | |
| 2 Timothy 2:24 | “And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,” Word: κύριος (kýrios) | |
| 1 Peter 2:13 | “Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;” Word: κύριος (kýrios) |
Theological Word Study: Lord
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: The LORD / Lord
When 'LORD' appears in small capitals, it represents the Tetragrammaton YHWH (יְהוָה), God's personal covenant name meaning 'I AM.' When 'Lord' appears normally, it's Adonai (אֲדֹנָי), meaning 'my Lord,' emphasizing sovereignty.
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Lord, Master
The Greek Kurios (Κύριος) means 'lord' or 'master,' used both for human masters and divinely for God the Father and Jesus Christ. Its application to Jesus affirms His deity, as it translates YHWH in the Septuagint.