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G1386 · Greek · New Testament
δόλιος
Dolios
Adjective
Deceitful / Crafty

Definition

The Greek adjective dolios (G1386) means deceitful, crafty, or guileful — the quality of one who uses dolos (bait/trap) to mislead others. It describes the character of false apostles who disguise themselves as servants of righteousness.

Usage & Theological Significance

Dolios appears once in 2 Corinthians 11:13, where Paul describes false apostles as 'deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ.' The word connects to Satan himself (v.14), who 'masquerades as an angel of light.' This is crucial: deception is spiritually deadly precisely because it looks like truth. The dolios person does not announce themselves as false; they come dressed in gospel language while carrying a different spirit.

Key Bible Verses

2 Corinthians 11:13 For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ.
Psalm 43:1 Rescue me from those who are deceitful and wicked.
John 8:44 There is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.
Ephesians 4:14 No longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.
Proverbs 12:17 An honest witness tells the truth, but a false witness tells lies.

Related Words

External Resources

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