The meaning of “βασιλεύς”
Understanding basileús reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
probably from βάσις (through the notion of a foundation of power) king. - a sovereign (abstractly, relatively, or figura...
βασιλεύς
probably from βάσις (through the notion of a foundation of power) king. - a sovereign (abstractly, relatively, or figuratively)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 21:5 | “Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass.” Word: βασιλεύς (basileús) | |
| Luke 22:25 | “And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors.” Word: βασιλεύς (basileús) | |
| Acts 25:14 | “And when they had been there many days, Festus declared Paul’s cause unto the king, saying, There is a certain man left in bonds by Felix:” Word: βασιλεύς (basileús) | |
| 1 Timothy 2:2 | “For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.” Word: βασιλεύς (basileús) | |
| 1 Peter 2:17 | “Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.” Word: βασιλεύς (basileús) |
Theological Word Study: King
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: King, ruler
The Hebrew melek (מֶלֶךְ) means king—sovereign ruler. 'The LORD is King for ever and ever' (Psalm 10:16). Israel's kings were to rule under God's authority, pointing to the coming King of kings.
New Testament Usage
Meaning: King
The Greek basileus (βασιλεύς) means king. Jesus is 'KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS' (Revelation 19:16). Pilate asked 'Art thou the King of the Jews?' and Jesus acknowledged His kingship 'not of this world' (John 18:36).