βασιλεύς (basileus)
basileus
king
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 104 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word basileus designates a king or sovereign ruler. In the New Testament it carries significant weight because it bridges several distinct roles. It refers to historical figures like King David (Matthew 1:6) and Herod the Tetrarch, who held royal title by courtesy. It also describes the Roman Emperor, reflecting the common political usage of the time where emperors were addressed as kings in official correspondence and inscriptions.
Most importantly, the term is applied to Jesus Christ. He is called the "King of the Jews" (Matthew 2:2) and the "King of Israel" (John 1:49), titles that affirm his messianic identity. The sources highlight a profound contrast in how this title is used for God versus earthly rulers. While human kings rule over nations, God is described as the "King of ages" (1 Timothy 1:17) and Jesus as the "King of kings" (Revelation 19:16), emphasizing a supreme authority that transcends all political power.
This progression from earthly monarchs to divine sovereignty shows how early Christians repurposed a familiar political term. By applying basileus to Christ, they made a theological claim that his reign was not limited by geography or empire but was absolute and eternal. The word thus serves as a key link between the Old Testament promises of a Davidic king and the New Testament revelation of Christ’s universal lordship.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
In the New Testament, the word for king carries a weight that goes far beyond political power. While earthly rulers like Herod held titles by force or birth, the Gospels present Jesus as a sovereign whose authority is rooted in love and truth. When the wise men asked where the King of the Jews was born, they recognized a hope that transcended the Roman Empire. This title affirms that God’s plan for humanity is not lost in history but is centered on a specific person who brings light to darkness.
For your faith, this means you serve a ruler who does not demand tribute through fear but invites trust through grace. Jesus entered Jerusalem riding a donkey, showing that His kingdom operates differently from the world’s systems. He is the King who identifies with the humble and the lowly. This assurance brings comfort, knowing that no earthly power can override His ultimate care for those who follow Him.
Even in moments of suffering, such as when Jesus stood before Pilate, He remained the true King. The inscription on the cross declared this identity to all who passed by. You can rest in the knowledge that your allegiance is to a reign that is eternal and just. This hope anchors your heart against the uncertainties of life, pointing you toward the peace that only Christ provides.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 104 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- King38×
- king29×
- kings22×
- a king8×
- of kings3×
- the king2×
- king;2×
- O king,2×
- to the King1×
- to [the] king1×
- of kings,1×
- king.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- βασιλεὺς44×
- βασιλεῖς15×
- βασιλέα12×
- βασιλέων10×
- βασιλεῦ7×
- βασιλέως6×
- βασιλεῖ6×
- βασιλεύς4×
- βασιλέα,2×
- βασιλεῦ,2×
- βασιλέως·1×
- βασιλέως.¶1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 2:2
“Where is he who is born King of the Jews? For we saw his star in the east, and have come to worship him.”
The wise men use this title to identify Jesus as the fulfillment of Jewish messianic hope, linking His birth to ancient promises.
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Matthew 21:5
“Tell the daughter of Zion, behold, your King comes to you, humble, and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.”
This verse highlights the contrast between earthly military power and Jesus’ humble entry, defining the nature of His kingdom.
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Matthew 27:37
They set up over his head the accusation against him written, “THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS.”
The charge on the cross serves as an ironic but true declaration of Jesus’ identity before all who witnessed His death.
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Matthew 5:35
nor by the earth, for it is the footstool of his feet; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King.
Jesus refers to God as the great King to emphasize the sacredness of Jerusalem and the authority behind His teaching.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does basileus mean in the New Testament?
How is Jesus called a king if He did not have a throne?
Why do the Gospels mention earthly kings like Herod?
Every Occurrence (104 verses across 10 books)
Matthew 22 verses
Jesse became the father of King David. David the king became the father of Solomon by her who had been Uriah’s wife.
Matthew 2:1Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of King Herod, behold, wise men from the east came to…
Matthew 2:2“Where is he who is born King of the Jews? For we saw his star in the east, and have come to worship him.”
Matthew 2:3When King Herod heard it, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.
Matthew 2:9They, having heard the king, went their way; and behold, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them until…
Matthew 5:35nor by the earth, for it is the footstool of his feet; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King.
Matthew 10:18Yes, and you will be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony to them and to the nations.
Matthew 11:8But what did you go out to see? A man in soft clothing? Behold, those who wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses.
Matthew 14:9The king was grieved, but for the sake of his oaths and of those who sat at the table with him, he commanded it to be…
Matthew 17:25He said, “Yes.” When he came into the house, Jesus anticipated him, saying, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do the…
Matthew 18:23Therefore the Kingdom of Heaven is like a certain king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants.
Matthew 21:5“Tell the daughter of Zion, behold, your King comes to you, humble, and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a…
Matthew 22:2“The Kingdom of Heaven is like a certain king, who made a wedding feast for his son,
Matthew 22:7When the king heard that, he was angry, and sent his armies, destroyed those murderers, and burned their city.
Matthew 22:11“But when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man who didn’t have on wedding clothing,
Matthew 22:13Then the king said to the servants, ‘Bind him hand and foot, take him away, and throw him into the outer darkness. That…
Matthew 25:34Then the King will tell those on his right hand, ‘Come, blessed of my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from…
Matthew 25:40“The King will answer them, ‘Most certainly I tell you, because you did it to one of the least of these my brothers,…
Matthew 27:11Now Jesus stood before the governor; and the governor asked him, saying, “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus said to…
Matthew 27:29They braided a crown of thorns and put it on his head, and a reed in his right hand; and they kneeled down before him…
Matthew 27:37They set up over his head the accusation against him written, “THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS.”
Matthew 27:42“He saved others, but he can’t save himself. If he is the King of Israel, let him come down from the cross now, and we…