εὐσέβεια (eusebeia)
eusebeia
piety
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 15 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek noun eusebeia describes a life marked by reverence and piety, specifically directed toward God. In the New Testament, it appears fifteen times, with a heavy concentration in the Pastoral Epistles like 1 Timothy and Titus, as well as in 2 Peter. It captures the outward expression of an inward attitude of respect and devotion.
Its root combines eu ("good") and sebomai ("to revere"), suggesting a wholesome or proper awe. The sources link this term to the Hebrew yir’ah (fear of the Lord) in the Septuagint, such as in Proverbs 1:7. Unlike mere ritual observance, eusebeia implies a consistent character shaped by divine truth, which is why Paul contrasts it with "godless and worldly desires" in 1 Timothy 6:5.
Translators often render it "godliness," though this English word can sound abstract or religiously formal. The Greek term carries more weight, referring to a practical way of living that honors God. In 2 Peter 1:3, it is linked to knowing God personally, showing that true piety flows from relationship rather than rule-keeping alone.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word eusepeia describes a life shaped by reverence for God. It is not just an internal feeling but a visible way of living that honors Him. This piety flows from knowing God personally, as seen in 2 Peter 1:3 where divine power grants us everything needed for this holy life. It is practical, showing up in how we treat others and handle our daily responsibilities.
Paul encourages believers to exercise themselves toward godliness in 1 Timothy 4:7. Unlike physical training, which has limited benefits, this spiritual discipline offers value in every area of life. It brings peace now and hope for the future. When we live with this reverence, we reflect Christ’s character to those around us.
This kind of piety is not about gaining wealth or status. In 1 Timothy 6:6, Paul notes that godliness with contentment is great gain. It invites us to trust God fully, finding our security in Him rather than in worldly success. This steady reverence anchors the soul through every season.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 15 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- godliness9×
- of godliness2×
- godliness,2×
- in godliness1×
- godliness.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- εὐσέβειαν4×
- εὐσεβείᾳ3×
- εὐσέβειαν,2×
- εὐσέβεια2×
- εὐσέβειαν.1×
- εὐσεβείας,1×
- εὐσεβείας1×
- εὐσεβείαις1×
Key Verses
-
I Timothy 4:8
For bodily exercise has some value, but godliness has value in all things, having the promise of the life which is now and of that which is to come.
This verse contrasts physical exercise with godliness, showing that true piety has eternal value beyond temporary benefits.
-
II Peter 1:3
seeing that his divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and virtue,
Here, godliness is linked directly to knowing God, indicating it stems from relationship rather than mere rule-keeping.
-
I Timothy 6:6
But godliness with contentment is great gain.
Paul defines the true gain of piety as contentment with God, countering the idea that religion is a tool for profit.
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II Timothy 3:5
holding a form of godliness but having denied its power. Turn away from these, also.
This warning highlights the danger of having only the outward appearance of godliness while denying its transformative power.