ψυχρός (psuchros)
psuchros
cold
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective psuchros literally describes something that is cold or cool, such as water. In the New Testament, it appears in two distinct contexts. Jesus uses it physically when promising a reward to anyone who gives even a cup of cold water to a disciple (Matthew 10:42). This usage highlights the tangible, everyday nature of the act.
However, the word carries a heavier metaphorical weight in Revelation 3:15-16. Here, Jesus addresses the church in Laodicea, describing them as neither hot nor cold but lukewarm. In this spiritual sense, psuchros signifies a state of being inert or sluggish in faith. It is not merely an absence of heat, but a condition of indifference that repels Christ more than open hostility.
The contrast with "hot" (thermos) is crucial. While hot water might be seen as useful for washing or medicinal purposes, cold water in this specific metaphorical context represents a faith that has lost its vitality and warmth. The sources note that this spiritual coldness is characterized by a lack of desire for holiness, making it a serious warning against complacency.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word psuchros reminds us that faith is not meant to be a passive state. In Matthew 10:42, Jesus honors the simple act of giving a cup of cold water to a disciple. This shows that God values tangible kindness in our daily lives. Even small gestures of care matter deeply to Him.
Yet Revelation 3 warns us against spiritual coldness. The church in Laodicea was neither hot nor cold, and Jesus found this indifference repulsive. Coldness here means a heart that has lost its warmth for God. It is not just about being quiet, but about being disconnected from His love.
We do not need grand gestures to stay close to Him. Regular acts of service and genuine affection keep our faith alive. Let us ask God to help us remain warm in spirit, ready to serve others with the same care He shows us.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- cold2×
- of cold [water]1×
- cold,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ψυχρὸς2×
- ψυχρός,1×
- ψυχροῦ1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 10:42
Whoever gives one of these little ones just a cup of cold water to drink in the name of a disciple, most certainly I tell you, he will in no way lose his reward.”
This verse shows Jesus valuing simple, physical acts of kindness toward believers as a sign of genuine discipleship.
-
Revelation of John 3:15
“I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were cold or hot.
Jesus uses this word to describe the Laodicean church's dangerous state of spiritual indifference, which He rejects more than open opposition.
-
Revelation of John 3:16
So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will vomit you out of my mouth.
The consequence of being cold in faith is severe exclusion from Christ's fellowship, highlighting the urgency of spiritual vitality.