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G1387 · Greek · New Testament
δολιόω
Dolioō
Verb
To deceive, use deceit

Definition

The Greek verb dolioō means to deceive or to act with guile. Related to dolos (bait/trap/deceit), it describes the active practice of trickery and dishonesty. In the New Testament it appears in Romans 3:13 in Paul's catena of indictment against human sinfulness.

Usage & Theological Significance

Paul quotes Psalm 5:9 LXX in Romans 3:13 — 'With their tongues they keep deceiving (dolioō)' — as part of a comprehensive portrait of humanity's corruption apart from God's grace. The word underscores that sin is not merely passive failure but active deceitfulness. The redeemed life is characterized by putting away all deceit and speaking truth in love (Ephesians 4:25).

Key Bible Verses

Romans 3:13 With their tongues they keep deceiving (dolioō); the venom of asps is under their lips.
Psalm 5:9 For there is no truth in their mouth; their inmost self is destruction; their throat is an open grave; they flatter with their tongue.
1 Peter 2:1 So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander.
John 1:47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, 'Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!'
Psalm 34:13 Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit.

Related Words

External Resources

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