The meaning of “βασιλεία”
Understanding basileía reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
kingdom, + reign. - properly, royalty, i.e. (abstractly) rule, or (concretely) a realm (literally or figuratively)
βασιλεία
kingdom, + reign. - properly, royalty, i.e. (abstractly) rule, or (concretely) a realm (literally or figuratively)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 13:41 | “The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity;” Word: βασιλεία (basileía) | |
| John 3:5 | “Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” Word: βασιλεία (basileía) | |
| 1 Corinthians 6:10 | “Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.” Word: βασιλεία (basileía) | |
| Colossians 4:11 | “And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, which have been a comfort unto me.” Word: βασιλεία (basileía) | |
| 2 Timothy 4:18 | “And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” Word: βασιλεία (basileía) |
Theological Word Study: Kingdom
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Kingdom, reign, royal power
The Hebrew malkhut (מַלְכוּת) denotes kingdom or royal rule—the realm and reign of a king. God's kingdom represents His sovereign rule over all creation.
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Kingdom, reign
The Greek basileia (βασιλεία) means kingdom—both the realm ruled and the exercise of royal authority. The 'kingdom of God' is central to Jesus' teaching, representing God's saving rule breaking into history.