φύσις (phusis)
phusis
nature
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 11 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun phusis refers to the inherent constitution or natural order of a thing. In the New Testament, it describes the innate properties that define an entity, whether human, animal, or created object. James uses this sense when noting that while different animals have distinct natures, the human tongue is uniquely unruly (James 3:7). Similarly, Peter speaks of believers sharing in the divine nature, highlighting a fundamental shift in their essential character (2 Peter 1:4).
Paul employs the term to discuss origins and customary practice. In Galatians, he contrasts those born according to the flesh with those born through promise, using phusis to denote physical lineage or birthright (Galatians 2:15). He also uses the phrase para physin, meaning "against nature," to describe behaviors that violate the created order (Romans 1:26). This usage underscores a boundary between what is natural and what is contrary to it.
The word carries theological weight in Romans 11, where Paul discusses olive branches. He argues that if wild branches were grafted in against nature, how much more easily will natural branches be grafted back into their own tree (Romans 11:24). Here, phusis signifies the original, intended state of belonging and identity within God’s design.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word phusis points to the deep, inherent constitution of a thing—what it is at its core before any external change occurs. In our daily lives, we often feel shaped by our environment or habits, but this term reminds us that there is a foundational identity given by the Creator. It speaks to the 'natural' order of things, whether in the physical world or in spiritual reality.
For the believer, this concept offers profound hope. Peter writes that through God's promises, we become partakers of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). This means our essential character is being transformed from the inside out. We are not merely improving old habits; we are receiving a new life that aligns with God’s original design. Even when we feel wild or untamed, like the natural branches in Romans 11, we are invited back into our true identity.
This understanding helps us see creation and ourselves with fresh eyes. It acknowledges the boundaries of our humanity while celebrating the grace that elevates us. We can trust that God’s design is good, and His power to renew us is greater than any distortion we face.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 11 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- nature6×
- by nature3×
- race1×
- nature,1×
- nature [are]1×
- kinds1×
- by birth1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- φύσει5×
- φύσιν4×
- φύσις2×
- φύσεως2×
- φύσιν,1×
Key Verses
-
II Peter 1:4
by which he has granted to us his precious and exceedingly great promises; that through these you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world by lust.
This verse highlights the transformative power of phusis by describing believers as partakers of the divine nature, indicating a fundamental change in essential character.
-
Romans 11:24
For if you were cut out of that which is by nature a wild olive tree, and were grafted contrary to nature into a good olive tree, how much more will these, which are the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree?
Paul uses the imagery of olive trees to show that being grafted into God's people is contrary to our wild nature, emphasizing the grace involved in our inclusion.
-
Ephesians 2:3
We also all once lived among them in the lusts of our flesh, doing the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.
Here phusis describes our former state as 'children of wrath' by nature, underscoring the magnitude of grace when God changes that inherent condition.
-
Romans 1:26
For this reason, God gave them up to vile passions. For their women changed the natural function into that which is against nature.
This passage contrasts natural functions with those against nature, illustrating how phusis defines the intended order of creation and its violations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does phusis mean in the New Testament?
How is phusis different from other words for 'nature'?
Why is phusis important for understanding salvation?
Every Occurrence (11 verses across 6 books)
Romans 5 verses
For this reason, God gave them up to vile passions. For their women changed the natural function into that which is…
Romans 2:14(for when Gentiles who don’t have the law do by nature the things of the law, these, not having the law, are a law to…
Romans 2:27Won’t those who are physically uncircumcised, but fulfill the law, judge you, who with the letter and circumcision are…
Romans 11:21for if God didn’t spare the natural branches, neither will he spare you.
Romans 11:24For if you were cut out of that which is by nature a wild olive tree, and were grafted contrary to nature into a good…