ψυχή: psychē (G5590), a Greek word meaning "breath, i.e. (by implication) spirit, abstractly or concretely (the animal sentient principle only; thus distinguished on the one hand from G4151 (πνεῦμα), which is the rational and immortal soul; and on the other from G2222 (ζωή), which is mere vita"
psychē
Plain-Language Summary
Based on Abbott-Smith’s Lexicon
The word "ψυχή" (psychē) primarily refers to the breath of life or the essence of life itself. It is often used to describe the soul as the center of emotions, desires, and will, or as a way to refer to a person or self. In some contexts, it is associated with divine grace and eternal salvation.
soul; the breath of life, the vital force
The Greek word psychē means "soul; the breath of life, the vital force," encompassing related ideas including heart, life, mind, soul.
- the seat of feelings, desires, and affections
- the human soul as distinct from the body
- life, the living self
- a living being, a person
Lexical data derived from Strong's Exhaustive Concordance. See full disclaimer
Word DNA
Origin
This word acts as a root form.
Cross-Language Connections
How psychē pairs with its counterpart across the Testaments.
Heart, Soul & Mind Cluster
Words that share the same theological orbit.
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ψυχή
Pronunciationpsychē
G5590
breath, i.e. (by implication) spirit, abstractly or concretely (the animal sentient principle only; thus distinguished on the one hand from G4151 (πνεῦμα), which is the rational and immortal soul; and on the other from G2222 (ζωή), which is mere vita
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