What Is the Greek Word for Holy? Can We Actually Be Holy?

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The word Holy seems to be used everywhere in reference to people, places, or things related to the religion and faith. The Greek word for holy is hagios. Hagios means holy. But what does holy mean? I know when I first think of something being holy, I envision a picture or vision of something glowing and radiating out golden rays of light, pure and undefiled and sinless, or if in reference to a human,someone who you would be “shocked” to find out they had committed a major sin. You know – the holy people among us! But what does it mean when, in the New Testament, in 1st Peter 1, for example – where I was reading this week. When we are taught that we, as believers and as followers of Christ – that we are to be holy? And not just that one day we are going to be perfected and holy and pure in God’s kingdom, but that we are to be holy now? And not just when times are good, but when times are really bad. The letter from Peter was written to Christians who had been scattered and exiled and were under intense persecution. Can you imagine being beaten or imprisoned or suffering at the hands of Rome and Peter – of all the disciples – the very impulsive Peter - sends you a letter saying “Remember, Be Holy!”