All word studies
Sin in the Bible
The Bible's vocabulary for sin is honest and varied: missing the mark, stepping over the line, crookedness, rebellion. Every word lays bare what salvation must answer.
Greek & Hebrew words
Greek (New Testament)
Key KJV verses
All verses →1 John 3:4
“Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.”Read in context
Isaiah 53:6
“All we like sheep have gone astray... and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.”Read in context
Romans 6:23
“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”Read in context
Three Hebrew words
Chatta't (H2403) is missing the mark, pesha (H6588) is rebellion, avon (H5771) is twistedness — together they expose sin as failure, defiance, and distortion.
Hamartia and friends
Greek hamartia (G266) is the umbrella term, parabasis (G3847) names trespass, anomia (G458) names life without law. Christ deals with all three (Hebrews 9:26).
Frequently asked questions
What is the biblical definition of sin?
Any failure to conform to God's character or law — in thought, word, or deed (1 John 3:4; James 4:17).
What is the Greek word for sin?
Hamartia (G266), meaning to miss the mark — used 173 times in the New Testament.