Strong's Lexicon philotheos: Loving God, God-loving Original Word: φιλόθεος Word Origin: Derived from φίλος (philos, meaning "loving" or "friend") and θεός (theos, meaning "God") Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: The Hebrew equivalent concept can be found in words like אָהֵב (ahav, Strong's H157), which means "to love." This term is used in the Shema, a central declaration of faith in Judaism, found in Deuteronomy 6:5 (BSB): "And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." Usage: The term "philotheos" is used to describe someone who has a deep affection and love for God. It characterizes a person whose life is oriented towards God, demonstrating devotion, reverence, and a desire to live in accordance with His will. This term encapsulates the essence of a believer's relationship with God, emphasizing love as a fundamental aspect of faith. Cultural and Historical Background: In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of love (philos) was often associated with friendship and loyalty. The addition of "theos" (God) to "philos" reflects a cultural understanding of piety and devotion that transcends mere duty, highlighting a personal and relational aspect of faith. In the early Christian context, this term would have been significant in distinguishing true believers who not only followed God's commandments but did so out of genuine love and commitment. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom philos and theos Definition loving God NASB Translation lovers of God (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 5377: φιλόθεοςφιλόθεος, φιλοθεον (φίλος and Θεός), loving (A. V. lovers of) God: 2 Timothy 3:4. ((Aristotle, rhet. 2, 17, 6), Philo, Lucian, others.) Strong's Exhaustive Concordance lover of God. From philos and theos; fond of God, i.e. Pious -- lover of God. see GREEK philos see GREEK theos Forms and Transliterations φιλοθεοι φιλόθεοι philotheoi philótheoiLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |