ἁγιότης (hagiotēs)
hagiotēs
holiness
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun hagiōtēs denotes holiness or sanctity as an abstract quality rather than a specific ritual act. Derived from the adjective hagios, it shifts the focus from the state of being set apart to the inherent moral purity that defines that status. In the New Testament, this term appears only twice, highlighting its specialized usage in theological reflection.
These occurrences appear in 2 Corinthians 1:12 and Hebrews 12:10. In both contexts, the word describes a divine attribute. Paul references it when discussing his conscience and integrity, while the author of Hebrews contrasts human discipline with God’s perfect holiness. The term emphasizes the essential nature of God’s character as morally pure and separate from sin.
Unlike terms that might describe ceremonial cleanliness, hagiōtēs points to an internal, ethical reality. It serves as a conceptual bridge between the object or person set apart for God and the moral integrity required to reflect His nature. This abstract noun allows Scripture to discuss holiness not just as a position, but as a fundamental quality of divine being.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word hagiotēs points to holiness as an inner reality rather than just a ritual status. It describes the moral purity that defines who God is and, by extension, those called to share in His life. This shifts our focus from external rules to the character of the heart.
In Hebrews 12:10, this term highlights God’s discipline as a means for us to partake in His holiness. It suggests that growth in faith involves becoming more like Him in integrity and purity. This is not about earning favor but about being shaped by His nature.
When we encounter this concept, it invites us to look at our own lives with honesty. We are invited to trust that God’s work in us aims at genuine moral transformation. This hope rests on His character, which remains constant and pure.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- holiness1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἁγιότητος1×
Key Verses
-
Hebrews 12:10
For they indeed for a few days disciplined us as seemed good to them, but he for our profit, that we may be partakers of his holiness.
This verse uses hagiotēs to contrast human discipline with God's purposeful training, aiming for our participation in His moral purity.