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G1217 · Greek · New Testament
δημιουργός
demiourgos
Noun, masculine
Craftsman/artisan/creator

Definition

The Greek demiourgos combines demos (people) and ergon (work) to denote a craftsman, artisan, builder, or creator — one who works on behalf of the public. In Greek philosophy (especially Plato's Timaeus), the Demiurge was the cosmic craftsman who shaped the material world. In the New Testament, it is applied to God as the architect of the eternal city.

Usage & Theological Significance

The single New Testament use of demiourgos is in Hebrews 11:10, describing Abraham's hope: 'he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect (demiourgos) and builder is God.' The choice of this philosophically loaded term is significant — it engages the Greek intellectual tradition's concept of a divine craftsman and declares that this craftsman is not an abstract cosmic force but the covenant God of Israel, the Father of Jesus Christ. In contrast to Platonic dualism (which saw the material world as inferior), Hebrews presents God as the glorious maker of a permanent, heavenly city — the New Jerusalem — for which Abraham's earthly sojourn was only a preview (cf. Revelation 21:2). God is not just the Creator of the universe; He is the Master Architect building an eternal dwelling for His people.

Key Bible Verses

Hebrews 11:10 For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God.
Revelation 21:2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.
John 14:2 My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?
Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
Hebrews 3:4 For every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything.

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External Resources

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