πατρικός (patrikos)
patrikos
paternal
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective patrikos describes something that is paternal or ancestral, relating to what has been handed down from one’s fathers. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Galatians 1:14, where Paul describes his zeal for the traditions of his ancestors.
Its root lies in patēr, meaning father, and it carries the weight of heritage rather than just biological relation. The sources note that this term is used in the Septuagint to translate Hebrew words associated with ancestral customs, highlighting a deep connection to family lineage and inherited practice. Paul uses it to emphasize how strictly he adhered to the religious customs passed down through his forefathers before his conversion.
Translators typically render this word as "ancestral" or "paternal," capturing the sense of something received from previous generations. It underscores the seriousness with which Paul viewed his religious background, showing that his former life was defined by a rigorous commitment to the traditions of his fathers.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word patrikos points to the deep roots of our identity. It describes the traditions, values, and practices handed down from one’s fathers. In Galatians 1:14, Paul uses it to describe his intense commitment to the religious customs of his ancestors. This shows how powerful heritage can be in shaping a person’s worldview and daily life.
For you, this word invites reflection on what you have inherited—both good and challenging. Perhaps you carry family patterns that influence your faith or behavior. Recognizing these roots helps you understand where certain beliefs come from. It allows you to examine them with honesty, keeping what honors God and releasing what does not.
Paul’s story reminds us that while heritage matters, it is not final. He left behind strict ancestral traditions when he encountered Christ. You too can find freedom in Jesus, who invites you to build a new legacy rooted in grace rather than mere custom. This offers hope for breaking cycles and starting fresh with God.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- fathers1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- πατρικῶν1×
Key Verses
-
Galatians 1:14
I advanced in the Jews’ religion beyond many of my own age among my countrymen, being more exceedingly zealous for the traditions of my fathers.
This verse highlights Paul’s zealous adherence to ancestral Jewish traditions before his conversion, showing how deeply patrikos reflects inherited religious practice.