The meaning of “ῥῆμα”
Understanding rhēma reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
+ evil, + nothing, saying, word. - an utterance (individually, collectively or specially), - by implication, a matter or...
ῥῆμα
+ evil, + nothing, saying, word. - an utterance (individually, collectively or specially), - by implication, a matter or topic (especially of narration, command or dispute) - with a negative naught whatever
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 18:16 | “But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.” Word: ῥῆμα (rhēma) | |
| Luke 4:4 | “And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.” Word: ῥῆμα (rhēma) | |
| Acts 10:44 | “While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.” Word: ῥῆμα (rhēma) | |
| 2 Corinthians 13:1 | “This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.” Word: ῥῆμα (rhēma) | |
| Hebrews 11:3 | “Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.” Word: ῥῆμα (rhēma) |
Theological Word Study: Word
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Word, thing, matter
The Hebrew davar (דָּבָר) means word, thing, or matter—God's creative and authoritative speech. 'By the word of the LORD were the heavens made' (Psalm 33:6).
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Word, reason, message
The Greek Logos (Λόγος) means word, reason, or message—the rational principle underlying reality. John identifies Christ as the eternal Logos: 'In the beginning was the Word' (John 1:1).