The meaning of “πιστεύω”
Understanding pisteúō reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
believe(-r), commit (to trust), put in trust with. - to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i....
πιστεύω
believe(-r), commit (to trust), put in trust with. - to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e. credit - by implication, to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to Christ)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 21:25 | “The baptism of John, whence was it? from heaven, or of men? And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say unto us, Why did ye not then believe him?” Word: πιστεύω (pisteúō) | |
| Acts 15:5 | “But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses.” Word: πιστεύω (pisteúō) | |
| Galatians 3:6 | “Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” Word: πιστεύω (pisteúō) | |
| 2 Thessalonians 2:11 | “And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:” Word: πιστεύω (pisteúō) | |
| Hebrews 11:6 | “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Word: πιστεύω (pisteúō) |
Theological Word Study: Believe
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: To believe, trust, be faithful
The Hebrew aman (אָמַן) means to believe or confirm—the root of 'Amen.' It conveys firm trust and reliability. Abraham 'believed in the LORD; and he counted it to him for righteousness' (Genesis 15:6).
New Testament Usage
Meaning: To believe, trust, have faith
The Greek pisteuo (πιστεύω) means to believe or trust—active reliance upon Christ. 'For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish' (John 3:16).