Understanding Piety: A Biblical Definition

Piety, in a biblical context, refers to a deep, reverent devotion to God that is reflected in both inner faith and outward behavior. Though the word "piety" itself is not commonly used in most modern Bible translations, the concept is found throughout Scripture under terms like "godliness," "devotion," "righteousness," and "the fear of the Lord." Biblical piety involves honoring God through prayer, obedience, worship, humility, and moral conduct. It’s not just about religious rituals, but about a heartfelt commitment to live according to God’s will.

Old Testament View of Piety
In the Old Testament, piety is closely tied to the "fear of the Lord," which is described as the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10). This fear is not terror but a respectful awe and recognition of God's power and holiness. Pious individuals like Abraham, Moses, and David demonstrated their devotion through trust, obedience, repentance, and worship. The Psalms, in particular, are rich with expressions of piety, where the psalmists pour out their hearts in prayer, acknowledge God's majesty, and seek to live upright lives.

Piety in the New Testament
The New Testament continues the theme of piety but emphasizes personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. The Greek word eusebeia, often translated as "godliness" or "piety," appears in letters such as 1 Timothy and 2 Peter. For instance, 1 Timothy 4:8 says, “Godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” Jesus exemplified perfect piety, combining obedience to the Father with compassion for others. He criticized outward religiosity without inner sincerity (Matthew 23), showing that true piety must be genuine and transformative.

Piety as a Way of Life
Biblical piety is not limited to religious acts like prayer and fasting; it extends into everyday life. It affects how one treats others, approaches work, handles money, and responds to hardship. James 1:27 defines “pure and undefiled religion” as caring for orphans and widows and keeping oneself unstained by the world. This verse underscores that piety is both practical and moral. It’s not just about reverence but about righteous living that reflects God’s character.

Conclusion
In biblical terms, piety is a sincere, reverent devotion to God that is expressed in both belief and behavior. It is marked by humility, obedience, love, and a desire to please God in all areas of life. Whether seen in the lives of Old Testament saints or in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, true piety is always rooted in a relationship with God and a heart committed to His ways.