στερέωμα (stereōma)
stereōma
firmness
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun stereōma refers to that which has been made firm or solid. In the ancient worldview reflected in the Greek Old Testament, it described the "firmament," or the dome of heaven believed to be a solid canopy separating the waters above from the earth below. This physical sense of a sturdy, unyielding structure underpins its metaphorical use.
In the New Testament, this concrete image shifts to describe spiritual stability. Paul uses the word in Colossians 2:5 to speak of the "firmness" or steadfastness of the believers' faith. Here, stereōma does not mean a rigid dogma, but rather a deep-rooted strength that holds fast against pressure, much like a solid foundation supports a building.
The term captures both physical solidity and moral constancy. It suggests that true faith is not fragile or easily shaken, but possesses the durability of something built to last. This usage highlights how early Christians viewed their convictions as secure and unmovable in the face of external challenges.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word stereōma describes a structure that is solid and unyielding. In ancient times, it referred to the firmament, the sky viewed as a sturdy dome holding back the waters. This image of physical strength helps us understand how early Christians spoke about their spiritual lives. They did not see faith as something fragile or easily broken by changing circumstances.
When Paul mentions this firmness in Colossians 2:5, he is celebrating the steady endurance of the believers. Their trust in Christ had become a deep-rooted strength that could withstand pressure. This suggests that true conviction is built to last, providing a secure ground for daily living. It is not about rigid rules, but about a reliable stability that keeps us grounded.
As you face challenges, remember that your faith can possess this same durability. It grows stronger when it is anchored in Christ rather than shifting with every new trend or difficulty. This kind of steadfastness offers peace and confidence, knowing that what you believe is secure and unmovable.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- firmness1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- στερέωμα1×
Key Verses
-
Colossians 2:5
For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in the spirit, rejoicing and seeing your order, and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.
This verse applies the concept of physical solidity to the spiritual steadiness of the believers' faith in Christ.