Glossary Terms

From the Greek pneuma and Hebrew ruach — both meaning breath or wind: invisible in itself, known by its movement and effects. The theological debates surrounding personhood and the Trinity are later developments; the original words are grounded in something physical and immediate. Synonyms: Holy Ghost, pneuma, ruach, Spirit of God, breath, wind.

From the Greek hypokritēs — a stage actor performing behind a mask — and its root components hypo (under) and krites (judge). When Jesus uses this term he is making two simultaneous critiques: religion performed for an audience, and judgment rendered from a concealed position — motives hidden, often even from oneself.