βίωσις (biōsis)
biōsis
lifestyle
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun biōsis refers to a person’s manner of living or way of life. It describes the practical course of one’s daily conduct and actions, rather than just biological existence. In the New Testament, this term is rare, appearing only once in Acts 26:4.
Paul uses it when describing his Jewish upbringing to King Agrippa. He details how he lived according to the strictest sect of their religion from his youth. The word captures a settled pattern of behavior and religious observance that defined his identity before his encounter with Christ.
Its root lies in the verb biō, meaning "to live." While other Greek words focus on life as a gift or breath, biōsis emphasizes the active style of living. It points to how one navigates daily choices within a specific community or tradition, making it a precise term for describing a committed lifestyle.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word biōsis points to the settled pattern of how we live day by day. It is not just about breathing or existing, but about the habits, choices, and commitments that shape our daily conduct. When Paul used this term, he was describing a life defined by strict religious observance and community tradition.
This reminds us that our faith is lived out in practical ways. Your lifestyle reflects what you truly value. It is not enough to hold beliefs in your mind; they must shape how you treat others, manage your time, and respond to challenges. God looks at the whole person, including the routines and patterns that define your walk with Him.
May your daily choices reflect the love and grace you have received. Let your lifestyle be a quiet witness to those around you, showing them the peace and purpose found in Christ.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- manner of life1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- βίωσίν1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 26:4
“Indeed, all the Jews know my way of life from my youth up, which was from the beginning among my own nation and at Jerusalem;
Paul uses this rare word to describe his entire upbringing and religious conduct before meeting Christ, highlighting how deeply his identity was shaped by his community's traditions.