θεμέλιος (themelios)
themelios
foundation
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 15 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The word themelios describes the foundational layer of a structure, whether physical or metaphorical. In its literal sense, it refers to the base upon which a building rests, as seen in Luke’s account of the foolish man who builds his house without this crucial support (Luke 6:48). The term appears frequently in Revelation, where John describes the twelve foundations of the New Jerusalem, each adorned with specific precious stones (Revelation 21:14, 19).
Metaphorically, themelios carries significant theological weight. Paul uses it to describe the basis of his ministry in Corinth, stating that he laid a foundation while others build upon it (1 Corinthians 3:10-12). Similarly, the author of Hebrews identifies repentance and faith as foundational principles, urging believers to move beyond these basic truths toward maturity (Hebrews 6:1). In Ephesians, the church is depicted as being built on this foundation, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20).
The etymology connects themelios to the verb tithēmi, meaning "to place" or "to set down." This root emphasizes the deliberate act of establishing something secure. The concept extends beyond mere physical support; it implies a stable starting point for truth and community. Translators typically render it as "foundation," capturing its role as the essential base that determines the stability of what follows.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word themelios points to the solid base beneath a structure. In Luke’s parable, the wise builder digs deep and lays his foundation on rock (Luke 6:48). This image reminds us that true stability comes from grounding our lives in Christ, rather than shifting sand. When storms come, a life built on this firm truth remains secure.
In Ephesians, we see that the church itself rests on this foundation, with Jesus as the cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20). This means our community and faith are not random or fragile. They are placed deliberately by God. We can trust that what is built on Him will endure.
This assurance invites us to examine where we place our hope. Are we building on temporary things, or on the eternal rock of Christ? The promise is clear: those who stand on this foundation will not fall. May you find peace in knowing your life is anchored securely in His love.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 15 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- foundation5×
- a foundation5×
- foundations4×
- [the] foundation1×
- Foundation1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- θεμέλιον8×
- θεμέλιος2×
- θεμελίους2×
- θεμέλιοι1×
- θεμέλια1×
- θεμελίῳ1×
- θεμελίου1×
Key Verses
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Luke 6:48
He is like a man building a house, who dug and went deep and laid a foundation on the rock. When a flood arose, the stream broke against that house, and could not shake it, because it was founded on the rock.
This verse illustrates the practical necessity of a deep, rock-solid foundation for enduring life's storms.
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I Corinthians 3:11
For no one can lay any other foundation than that which has been laid, which is Jesus Christ.
It establishes that Jesus Christ is the only valid foundation for any spiritual building or ministry.
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Ephesians 2:20
being built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the chief cornerstone;
This passage shows how the entire church community is constructed upon this divine foundation with Christ as the key stone.
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Revelation of John 21:14
The wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them twelve names of the twelve Apostles of the Lamb.
It depicts the eternal city’s twelve foundations bearing the names of the apostles, signifying permanent stability and divine order.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does themelios mean in the Bible?
Who is the foundation in 1 Corinthians 3:11?
How is themelios different from a general base?
Every Occurrence (15 verses across 9 books)
Luke 3 verses
He is like a man building a house, who dug and went deep and laid a foundation on the rock. When a flood arose, the…
Luke 6:49But he who hears and doesn’t do, is like a man who built a house on the earth without a foundation, against which the…
Luke 14:29Or perhaps, when he has laid a foundation and isn’t able to finish, everyone who sees begins to mock him,