What does "piety" mean?

Etymology and General Definition

Piety, often translated as “godliness” in English Bibles, conveys reverence and devotion toward the Divine. In the original Greek texts of the New Testament, this concept is frequently represented by the word “eusebeia,” meaning a respectful awe and consistent alignment with God’s character. It implies both an inward attitude of reverence and an outward demonstration of righteous behavior. While “godliness” is commonly used in modern translations to reflect this idea, older traditions sometimes rendered it “piety.”

Old Testament Foundations

In Hebrew Scriptures, the reverence expressed toward God is sometimes framed as the “fear of the LORD,” indicating deep respect and awe rather than mere terror. Deuteronomy 10:12 captures this foundation: “And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways, to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul.”

This posture of the heart calls for worshipful obedience. The reverential response includes moral uprightness, covenant faithfulness, and personal humility before the Creator. Piety in the Old Testament context drives a life that actively reflects God’s holiness (Leviticus 19:2: “Speak to the whole congregation of the Israelites and tell them: ‘Be holy because I the LORD your God am holy.’”).

New Testament Usage

The Greek term “eusebeia” appears prominently in the Pastoral Epistles. Paul’s exhortation in 1 Timothy 4:7–8 reads: “But reject irreverent and silly myths. Instead, train yourself for godliness. For physical exercise is of limited value, but godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for the present life and for the one to come.” This passage underscores that piety carries lasting worth, not merely a transitory benefit.

In 2 Peter 1:5–7, believers are instructed: “For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith virtue; and to virtue, knowledge; to knowledge, self-control; to self-control, perseverance; to perseverance, godliness; to godliness, brotherly affection; and to brotherly affection, love.” Here, piety (godliness) stands in a chain of graces that shape Christian maturity, showing that it is part of the progressive growth in one’s faith and character.

Key Aspects of Piety

1. Reverence for God: True piety involves recognizing God’s holiness and responding with sincere tribute. It is characterized by honor directed to the Creator’s authority.

2. Moral Living: Genuine piety prompts ethical conduct. It is a heart disposition that translates into daily life choices guided by God’s word (James 1:22: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only. Otherwise, you are deceiving yourselves.”).

3. Worship and Devotion: Piety goes beyond a single moment of worship. It encompasses everything from personal prayer to communal gatherings, ensuring that these acts reflect a heartfelt devotion rather than empty ritual (Matthew 15:8–9).

4. Compassion and Service: Scripture describes “pure and undefiled religion” (a term closely related to piety) in James 1:27 as looking after orphans and widows in distress and keeping oneself unstained by the world. Genuine piety is found where faith meets tangible expression of love for others.

Distinction from Legalism

Piety should not be confused with legalism—a merely external adherence to tradition without true devotion. Jesus addressed this distinction in Matthew 6:1: “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.” Thus, piety is primarily about a humble heart before God rather than public displays for human recognition.

Practical Outworking

1. Personal Prayer and Study: Consistent engagement with Scripture (Psalm 1:2) and prayer forms the backbone of pious living.

2. Obedience to God’s Commands: A willful submission to documented truth in Scripture defines true piety (John 14:15).

3. Community and Fellowship: Gathering with fellow believers encourages mutual support and accountability (Hebrews 10:24–25).

4. Holistic Life Transformation: Piety influences decisions in family, work, and societal relationships, reflecting the transforming power of God in every realm of life.

Biblical and Historical Witness

Ancient manuscript evidence (including fragments of early New Testament letters) consistently points to the unwavering call for devoted reverence toward God. Archaeological findings that corroborate key biblical settings, such as the first-century inscriptions in the region of Asia Minor (where Timothy served), lend historical resonance to the instructions on piety found in Paul’s epistles. Early Christian writings outside the New Testament, including those by church fathers such as Ignatius of Antioch, further underscore the significance of pious living modeled on Christ’s teachings.

Conclusion

Piety encapsulates a heart fully devoted to God, shown by inner reverence and outward obedience. Though “piety” may appear in various forms—godliness, holiness, reverence—the core remains consistent in Scripture: a life reflecting true devotion, separated from empty ritualism, and anchored in active love for both God and neighbor. This enduring call to piety persists throughout Scripture, inviting all into a deeper, reverential walk that honors the One who created and redeems.