θειότης (theiotēs)
theiotēs
divinity
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun theiōtēs refers to the quality or state of being divine, often translated as "divinity" or "divine nature." Derived from the adjective theios, it denotes the attributes and characteristics that define God’s essence rather than God’s personal identity. In Romans 1:20, Paul uses this term to explain that God’s invisible qualities are clearly perceived in creation, making humanity without excuse for failing to honor Him.
Lexical sources distinguish this word from theia, which refers to deity or divine personality. While theia points to the essence of God, theiōtēs summarizes the specific attributes—such as power and eternal existence—that reveal that essence. This distinction highlights how creation serves as a window into God’s nature, allowing observers to recognize His divine characteristics through what has been made.
The word appears only once in the New Testament, emphasizing its specific theological weight in Paul’s argument about natural revelation. It underscores the idea that God’s nature is not hidden but is evident in the world around us, inviting reflection on the connection between the Creator and His creation.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word theiotēs points to the quality of being divine—specifically the invisible attributes like eternal power and Godhead that define who God is. In Romans 1:20, Paul explains that these qualities are clearly perceived through the things that have been made. This means you do not need a secret revelation to sense the weight of God’s presence; the created world itself serves as a window into His nature.
When you look at the complexity of life or the vastness of the sky, you are encountering evidence of this divine character. It is an invitation to recognize that God has made Himself known through His works. This understanding grounds your faith in reality, showing that the Creator’s power is not hidden but evident for all to see.
This awareness brings a sense of wonder and responsibility. Since these attributes are clearly seen, we are called to honor Him rather than ignore what is plainly displayed around us. It reminds us that God’s nature is accessible and real, inviting you to reflect on the connection between the Creator and His creation with gratitude and awe.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- divinity,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- θειότης,1×
Key Verses
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Romans 1:20
For the invisible things of him since the creation of the world are clearly seen, being perceived through the things that are made, even his everlasting power and divinity, that they may be without excuse.
This verse uses the word to specify that God's invisible attributes, particularly His everlasting power, are clearly perceived through creation, leaving humanity without excuse.