Greek · Strong's G5207
υἱός
huiós (hui-OS)
noun, masculine
The Greek term huios most often denotes a male offspring, a son, sometimes with a wider theological meaning.
The semantic range of *huios* is quite wide, extending from a literal male descendant to a broader metaphorical sense of relationship or characteristic. At its most basic, *huios* refers to a literal son, the male offspring of parents. This can be seen in numerous contexts, such as describing Jesus as the son of Joseph, or a parent referring to their own child. Beyond direct lineal descent, the term can also designate a person who is a descendant in a more general sense, or even a younger person under the authority or care of an elder.
However, the theological weight of *huios* becomes pronounced when speaking of the "Son of God" or "Son of Man." These titles carry significant Christological meaning, emphasizing Jesus' unique relationship with God the Father and his identifying with humanity. The phrase "Son of God" expresses Jesus' divine nature and his intimate connection to the Father, while "Son of Man" frequently points to his humanity and his role as the eschatological figure who will judge and rule.
Furthermore, *huios* can describe a person exhibiting the characteristics or nature of another, or belonging to a particular group or destiny. For example, "sons of perdition" indicates one destined for destruction. In a broader spiritual sense, believers are often referred to as "sons of God" by adoption, reflecting their new relationship with God through Christ. This usage highlights a transformation of status and an inheritance of a spiritual identity, emphasizing God's fatherly care and the believer's filial relationship.
Common English renderings
- son
- child
- foal
Key verses
"For he taught his disciples, and said unto them, The Son of man is delivered up into the hands of men, and they shall kill him; and when he is killed, after three days he shall rise again."
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"For God sent not the Son into the world to judge the world; but that the world should be saved through him."
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"He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Most High: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:"
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"He that believeth on the Son hath eternal life; but he that obeyeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him."
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"but when this thy son came, who hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou killedst for him the fatted calf."
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Related words