ζωή

The Greek word *zōē* most broadly refers to life, encompassing both animate existence and the concept of vitality. Its semantic range extends from the biological life shared with all living creatures to a profound spiritual and eternal life. In the New Testament, *zōē* is frequently used to describe a quality of life imparted by God, a dynamic existence distinct from mere biological function.

While *zōē* can denote earthly physical life (e.g., Luke 12:15, Romans 8:38), its most significant usage in the New Testament is in the context of divine and eternal life. This divine *zōē* is presented as originating from God the Father (John 5:26) and being uniquely embodied in Jesus Christ (John 1:4, 1 John 1:2). Through faith in Christ, believers are said to participate in this eternal life, often contrasted with spiritual death or perishing.

John's Gospel, in particular, emphasizes that Jesus is the source and embodiment of *zōē*. He offers a life that begins in the present and extends into eternity, a life characterized by knowing God and being in fellowship with Him (John 17:3). This spiritual and eternal life is not simply a future hope but a present reality for those who believe (John 5:24, 6:47). This profound sense of *zōē* is a central theme in understanding the salvation offered through Christ.

The concept of *zōē* also appears in the Old Testament, where the Hebrew word *chayyim* (H2416) often conveys similar meanings, referring to both physical life and a full, blessed existence, often associated with covenant faithfulness. The Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Old Testament) frequently uses *zōē* to translate *chayyim*, indicating a continuity in conceptual understanding across the testaments, especially regarding life as a gift from God.