σέβασμα
sebasma
object of worship
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word σέβασμα (sebasma) refers to an object of worship. This term is found in the Bible just two times, indicating its relatively limited usage. As an object of worship, σέβασμα suggests a tangible entity that is revered and honored by people. This could be a statue, an idol, or any other physical representation that is considered sacred. The semantic domain of Worship & Ritual further emphasizes the significant role that σέβασμα plays in the lives of those who worship it. The fact that it is an object of worship implies that it holds spiritual or mystical value, and is often associated with rituals and practices that are meant to appease or honor it. In the context of the Bible, the usage of σέβασμα may suggest a critique of idolatry or the worship of false gods. The limited occurrences of this term may indicate that it is not a central concept in the biblical narrative, but rather a specific aspect of the cultural and religious practices of the time.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
2 total occurrences across the text
For as I passed along and observed the objects of your worship, I also found an altar with this inscription: ‘TO AN UNKNOWN GOD.’ What therefore you worship in ignorance, I announce to you.
2 Thessalonians 2:4he who opposes and exalts himself against all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, setting himself up as God.