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G2222 · Greek · New Testament
ζωή
zōē
Noun, feminine
life, eternal life, vitality

Definition

Life — especially the divine, eternal quality of life that God gives. Distinguished from bios (biological life, livelihood), zōē in the NT carries rich theological meaning: it is the life of God imparted to believers. John's Gospel uses it 36 times, always pointing to Christ as its source.

Usage & Theological Significance

Jesus said, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life' (John 14:6) and 'I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly' (John 10:10). Zōē aiōnios (eternal life) is not just about duration but about quality — knowing God (John 17:3). Paul contrasts: 'The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life' (Romans 6:23). Zōē is the opposite of spiritual death — real, abundant, everlasting existence in God.

Key Bible Verses

John 14:6 I am the way, the truth, and the life.
John 10:10 I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.
John 1:4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.
Romans 6:23 The gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
1 John 5:12 Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son does not have life.

Related Words

External Resources

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