λογισμός (logismos)
logismos
thought
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun logismos refers to a thought, reasoning process, or mental calculation. Derived from the verb logizomai, which means to reckon or count, it describes the internal activity of the mind as it evaluates information and forms judgments. In the New Testament, this word appears only twice, both in the writings of Paul, highlighting its specific theological weight rather than general usage.
In Romans 2:15, Paul uses logismos to describe what the law writes on the hearts of Gentiles, functioning as a conscience that bears witness to moral standards. Similarly, in 2 Corinthians 10:5, he speaks of taking every thought captive to obey Christ. In these contexts, logismos is not merely a fleeting idea but a structured line of reasoning or judgment that influences behavior and belief.
While the word can neutrally denote logical deduction, Paul often employs it to identify mental frameworks that oppose the gospel. The sources note that these reasonings can be hostile to Christian faith, requiring believers to align their deepest convictions with the truth of Christ. This usage underscores the importance of examining not just actions, but the underlying logic that drives them.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word logismos points to the deep reasoning processes that shape how we view ourselves and the world. It is not just a passing thought, but the underlying logic of our heart. In Romans 2:15, Paul describes this inner witness as the law written on the heart, showing that even without specific instruction, people possess an innate sense of right and wrong.
This awareness invites us to examine the foundations of our beliefs. When our reasoning aligns with God's truth, it brings peace. When it drifts into self-justification or pride, it creates distance from Him. Recognizing these mental patterns allows us to seek wisdom rather than relying solely on our own understanding.
We are encouraged to bring our deepest convictions before God in prayer. By asking for clarity, we can replace flawed logic with the steady truth of Scripture. This practice helps cultivate a mind that is both humble and aligned with divine purpose.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- thoughts1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- λογισμῶν1×
Key Verses
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Romans 2:15
in that they show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience testifying with them, and their thoughts among themselves accusing or else excusing them)
This verse highlights logismos as the internal reasoning that accuses or excuses, demonstrating its role in moral self-evaluation.