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G3824 · Greek · New Testament
παλιγγενεσία
paliggenesia
Noun, feminine
regeneration, renewal, rebirth

Definition

Paliggenesia (G3824) appears only twice in the NT. In Matthew 19:28 Jesus uses it for the cosmic renewal of all creation at the consummation — 'the renewal [paliggenesia] of all things when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne.' In Titus 3:5 Paul uses it for individual spiritual rebirth — 'He saved us through the washing of rebirth [paliggenesia].'

Usage & Theological Significance

The word carries Stoic philosophical background (the renewal of the cosmos after destruction) but Paul and Jesus baptize it with new meaning: the same Greek word covers both personal regeneration and cosmic restoration. The individual new birth is a foretaste and first-fruit of the ultimate paliggenesia — when all creation is made new. Personal salvation is not just about individual souls but about the renewal of everything.

Key Bible Verses

Titus 3:5 He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth [paliggenesia] and renewing of the Holy Spirit.
Matthew 19:28 Jesus said to them, 'Truly I tell you, at the renewal [paliggenesia] of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne...'
John 3:3 Jesus replied, 'Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.'
Romans 8:21 The creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God.
Revelation 21:5 He who was seated on the throne said, 'I am making everything new!'

Related Words

External Resources

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