λόγιον (logion)
logion
oracles
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun logion refers to a brief, weighty utterance from God, often translated as "oracle." It is a diminutive form derived from logos, suggesting that these divine messages are concise yet profound fragments of truth. In the New Testament, it appears only four times, highlighting its specific focus on sacred speech rather than general conversation.
Scripture uses this term to describe the contents of the Mosaic Law and the teachings entrusted to believers. Paul points to the Jews as those who received these oracles in Romans 3:2, while Peter speaks of ministers speaking God’s logia in 1 Peter 4:11. The word captures the idea that God’s communication, though brief, carries full authority.
The term also appears in Hebrews 5:12, where the author criticizes readers for needing basic instruction rather than deeper spiritual food. This usage underscores the value of divine revelation as essential nourishment for faith, distinct from human philosophy or casual speech.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word logion describes a short but weighty utterance from God. Though it is a diminutive form of 'word,' it carries immense authority. These are not casual remarks but sacred fragments of truth that nourish the soul. When you read Scripture, you are encountering these living revelations entrusted to us for guidance and hope.
In Acts 7:38, we see how Israel received these oracles to pass on to future generations. Similarly, Peter reminds us in 1 Peter 4:11 that when we speak God’s words, we are speaking as if they were His very own. This truth invites us to treat every part of the Bible with reverence, knowing it is food for our spiritual growth rather than empty philosophy.
Hebrews 5:12 shows that even basic oracles are essential milk for new believers. You do not need to understand everything at once; God’s word meets you where you are. Let these sacred messages anchor your faith and bring glory to Christ in all you do.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- oracles4×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- λόγια3×
- λογίων1×
Key Verses
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Acts 7:38
This is he who was in the assembly in the wilderness with the angel that spoke to him on Mount Sinai, and with our fathers, who received living revelations to give to us,
This verse highlights the historical transmission of God's living oracles from Sinai to the people, showing their role as a guide for the community.
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Romans 3:2
Much in every way! Because first of all, they were entrusted with the revelations of God.
Paul uses this term to emphasize the unique privilege of Israel in being entrusted with the very words of God.
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Hebrews 5:12
For although by this time you should be teachers, you again need to have someone teach you the rudiments of the first principles of the revelations of God. You have come to need milk, and not solid food.
The author contrasts basic oracles with solid food, showing that these foundational revelations are necessary spiritual nourishment for maturity.
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I Peter 4:11
If anyone speaks, let it be as it were the very words of God. If anyone serves, let it be as of the strength which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Peter instructs believers to speak as if delivering God's own oracles, elevating the responsibility of sharing divine truth.