πνεῦμα: pneuma (G4151), a Greek word meaning "a current of air, i.e. breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e. (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital principle, mental disposition, etc., or (superhuman) an angel, demon, or (divine) God, Christ's spirit, th"
pneuma
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Plain-Language Summary
Based on Abbott-Smith’s Lexicon
The word "πνεῦμα" (pneuma) primarily refers to "spirit," "breath," or "wind." It can describe physical phenomena like wind or breath, the vital principle of life, or the human spirit, often contrasted with the body, flesh, or soul. Additionally, it is used to denote incorporeal beings such as angels, demons, or the Holy Spirit, with nuances depending on context, including disposition, influence, or divine operations.
breath, wind; the vital breath or life-principle (pneuma)
The Greek word pneuma means "breath, wind; the vital breath or life-principle (pneuma)," encompassing related ideas including ghost, life, spirit, mind.
- the human spirit or rational soul
- a spirit being, an angel or demon
- the Holy Spirit (in NT usage)
- mental disposition or influence
Lexical data derived from Strong's Exhaustive Concordance. See full disclaimer
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How pneuma pairs with its counterpart across the Testaments.
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πνεῦμα
Pronunciationpneuma
G4151
a current of air, i.e. breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e. (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital principle, mental disposition, etc., or (superhuman) an angel, demon, or (divine) God, Christ's spirit, th
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