κτίστης (ktistēs)
ktistēs
creator
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun ktistēs refers to one who establishes or brings something into existence, functioning as both a founder and a creator. In classical usage, it often described the founder of a city or institution, but in Scripture, it is reserved for God as the originator of all things. This single term bridges the idea of laying a foundation with the act of creating life itself.
Although this word appears only once in the New Testament, its presence in 1 Peter 4:19 carries significant weight. The apostle urges believers to entrust their souls to the ktistēs, framing God not merely as a distant architect but as the personal source of existence who receives and sustains those who do good. This usage connects the act of creation directly with divine trust and faithfulness.
The term derives from the verb ktizō, which underlies the concept of planting or establishing. By using this specific word, the text emphasizes God’s role as the definitive origin of life, inviting confidence in His character rather than focusing on the mechanics of how He created. It stands as a reminder that the One who begins is also the One who preserves.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word ktistēs appears just once in the New Testament, yet it carries profound weight for anyone facing hardship. In 1 Peter 4:19, believers are urged to entrust their souls to this faithful Creator. This is not a distant architect who built the universe and walked away, but the personal originator of life who actively sustains those who suffer according to His will.
When you feel overwhelmed by circumstances beyond your control, remember that the One who began your story is also the One who preserves it. You do not have to manage every detail alone. Instead, you can rest in the character of the Creator, knowing that He is trustworthy with your soul, even when the path forward seems unclear or painful.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Creator1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- κτίστῃ1×
Key Verses
-
I Peter 4:19
Therefore let them also who suffer according to the will of God in doing good entrust their souls to him, as to a faithful Creator.
This verse uniquely pairs the title 'Creator' with the act of entrusting one's soul during suffering, highlighting God's personal faithfulness rather than just His power.