τοιοῦτος (toioutos)
toioutos
such as this
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 58 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word toioutos means "such as this" or "of this kind." It functions as a demonstrative adjective that points to something previously mentioned or clearly understood in context. In the New Testament, it appears sixty-one times, with notable frequency in Paul’s letters to the Corinthians and in the Gospels of Mark and Matthew.
Its core function is to classify or identify. When Jesus speaks of "such as these" referring to children in Mark 10:14, he uses the word to define a specific group by their characteristic humility. Similarly, Paul describes false apostles as "such men" (2 Corinthians 11:13) to categorize them by their deceptive nature rather than just listing individual traits.
The word often carries a nuance of intensity or specificity. In Mark 13:19, Jesus describes a time of distress "such as has not happened from the beginning," using toioutos to emphasize the unique severity of that period. It is frequently paired with other words like hōs ("as") or hoios ("of what kind") to create precise comparisons, allowing writers to draw sharp distinctions between different types of people, actions, or events.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word toioutos points to a specific kind of person or thing, helping us see God’s heart for who He welcomes. In Mark 10:14, Jesus uses it to describe children, showing that the Kingdom belongs to those with simple trust and humility. This reminds us that our faith is not about status or strength, but about receiving God’s grace with open hands.
It also helps us recognize patterns in our lives. When Paul warns against false teachers in 2 Corinthians, he uses this word to categorize their behavior, urging believers to stay grounded in truth. By understanding what kind of actions align with Christ, we can navigate difficult seasons with clarity and peace.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 58 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- such20×
- things4×
- such things3×
- such a one3×
- such a man3×
- with such2×
- so2×
- of such2×
- with such a one1×
- type of [person]1×
- to such as these1×
- to such a one1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- τοιαῦτα9×
- τοιοῦτον6×
- τοιαύτην6×
- τοιοῦτοι5×
- τοιούτων5×
- τοιούτους4×
- τοιοῦτος3×
- τοιαύτη3×
- τοιούτῳ2×
- τοιούτοις2×
- τοιαύταις2×
- τοιοῦτος.1×
Key Verses
-
Mark 10:14
But when Jesus saw it, he was moved with indignation and said to them, “Allow the little children to come to me! Don’t forbid them, for God’s Kingdom belongs to such as these.
Jesus uses this word to define the specific humility required to enter God's Kingdom.
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Matthew 9:8
But when the multitudes saw it, they marveled and glorified God, who had given such authority to men.
The crowds marvel at the unique authority Jesus gave to ordinary men, highlighting divine power in human vessels.
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John 4:23
But the hour comes, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such to be his worshipers.
God actively seeks worshipers who fit this specific description of spirit and truth.
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Romans 16:18
For those who are such don’t serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the innocent.
Paul identifies a distinct group whose self-serving speech deceives others, warning believers to discern their character.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does toioutos mean in the New Testament?
Why does Jesus use this word for children?
How is this word different from other Greek words for 'such'?
Every Occurrence (58 verses across 18 books)
Matthew 3 verses
But when the multitudes saw it, they marveled and glorified God, who had given such authority to men.
Matthew 18:5Whoever receives one such little child in my name receives me,
Matthew 19:14But Jesus said, “Allow the little children, and don’t forbid them to come to me; for the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to…