δόλιος (dolios)
dolios
deceitful
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective dolios describes something or someone as deceitful, treacherous, or fraudulent. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in 2 Corinthians 11:13, where Paul characterizes false apostles as "deceitful workers." This single usage highlights a serious moral corruption, suggesting that these individuals are not merely mistaken but actively engaged in dishonesty to mislead others.
The word derives from the root for craft or artifice, implying a calculated use of skill for harmful ends rather than simple error. By labeling his opponents with this term, Paul emphasizes the intentional nature of their deception. The sources note that while the word appears in the Septuagint, its New Testament application is specific to those who disguise their true intentions under a false guise.
Translators consistently render dolios as "deceitful" or "crafty," capturing the sense of hidden malice. The term carries significant theological weight in this context, serving as a warning against spiritual fraudulence. It distinguishes between genuine ministry and those who exploit their position for personal gain, marking a clear boundary between truth and calculated falsehood.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word dolios describes a calculated deception, where skill is twisted to hide malicious intent. In 2 Corinthians 11:13, Paul uses it to label false teachers as deceitful workers who masquerade as genuine apostles. This term warns us that not every voice claiming authority speaks the truth.
For your faith, this word invites discernment rather than fear. It reminds us that spiritual authenticity is measured by honesty and alignment with Christ, not just outward appearance or persuasive speech. We are called to test teachings against Scripture, trusting God to guide our understanding.
May you find peace in knowing that truth stands firm against all fraud. Your journey in faith is supported by the clarity of God’s Word, which reveals what is real and enduring.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- deceitful,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- δόλιοι,1×
Key Verses
-
II Corinthians 11:13
For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as Christ’s apostles.
Paul uses dolios here to expose false apostles who actively disguise their true intentions as Christ’s servants.