παιδεύω (paideuō)
paideuō
to instruct
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 13 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb paideuō covers the full spectrum of bringing someone up correctly, blending instruction with correction. In the New Testament it appears in contexts ranging from secular education to divine discipline. Stephen notes his own training in Greek learning (Acts 7:22), while Paul describes how God’s grace teaches us to live godly lives (Titus 2:12). The word captures the idea that true learning involves both receiving knowledge and being shaped by it.
A distinct nuance emerges when the term shifts toward correction or chastening. This usage mirrors the Hebrew concept of yasar, seen in Proverbs and Psalms, where discipline is an act of love rather than punishment. The author of Hebrews applies this to believers, explaining that God disciplines those He loves as a father does his son (Hebrews 12:6). Even Jesus’ trial before Pilate involves the crowd asking for him to be "chastised" or flogged (Luke 23:16), showing the word’s range from gentle teaching to physical scourging.
Its root relates to a child (pais), reminding readers that this form of guidance is intended for those being formed. Unlike simple information transfer, paideuō implies a relationship where the instructor cares about the learner’s character. Translators often render it as "instruct," "teach," or "discipline" depending on whether the context emphasizes learning or correction, highlighting that in Scripture, these two actions are rarely separate.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word paideuō reminds us that God’s guidance is never just about giving you information; it is about shaping who you are becoming. In everyday life, we often separate learning from correction, but Scripture holds them together. When God instructs us, He is actively forming our character, much like a parent guiding a child toward maturity rather than simply handing over a rulebook.
This truth offers comfort when we face difficult seasons. The discipline described in Hebrews 12 is not a sign of rejection but evidence of belonging. It is the loving intervention of a Father who wants us to share in His holiness. Even when correction feels sharp, it is rooted in grace, designed to turn us away from harm and toward life.
As you navigate your own journey, remember that this instruction is relational. God does not stand at a distance but walks with you through both the lessons and the corrections. This process is His way of drawing you closer to Him, ensuring that your faith rests on deep roots rather than shallow feelings.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 13 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Having chastised2×
- we are disciplined,1×
- was instructed1×
- they were disciplining [us],1×
- they may be disciplined1×
- instructing1×
- instructed1×
- disciplining1×
- disciplines,1×
- disciplines1×
- discipline.1×
- being disciplined1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- παιδεύσας2×
- ἐπαίδευον,1×
- ἐπαιδεύθη1×
- πεπαιδευμένος1×
- παιδεύω.1×
- παιδεύουσα1×
- παιδεύοντα1×
- παιδεύει,1×
- παιδεύει1×
- παιδευόμενοι1×
- παιδευόμεθα,1×
- παιδευθῶσιν1×
Key Verses
-
Hebrews 12:6
for whom the Lord loves, he disciplines, and chastises every son whom he receives.”
This verse establishes the foundational principle that divine discipline is a direct proof of God's love and our status as His children.
-
Titus 2:12
instructing us to the intent that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we would live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present age;
Here the word shows how instruction actively trains believers to reject ungodliness and live with self-control in the present age.
-
Acts 7:22
Moses was instructed in all the wisdom of the Egyptians. He was mighty in his words and works.
This occurrence highlights the intellectual side of the term, showing Moses was thoroughly educated in Egyptian wisdom before his calling.