Brief Overview of ἀλλόφυλος (G246)

The Greek word ἀλλόφυλος (allophulos) is an adjective meaning “of another tribe” or “of another race.” It is used to describe individuals or groups who belong to a different nation or ethnic group compared to the one in focus. In biblical contexts, it often signifies those who are foreign or not part of the Jewish community, reflecting their status as outsiders.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• G246 ἀλλόφυλος (allophulos): Strong’s Concordance defines this term as “of another tribe” or “foreign.” It indicates someone or something that belongs to a different people group or nation. The term highlights the distinction between one’s own people and those from other ethnic or national backgrounds.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer’s Lexicon elaborates that ἀλλόφυλος means “of another race or nation,” specifying that it refers to people who are not of the same ethnic group or nation as the one being referenced. The term emphasizes the difference in tribal or national affiliation.

1. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon:

• The LSJ Lexicon describes ἀλλόφυλος as “of another race or tribe.” It underscores the term’s use in distinguishing between different ethnic or national groups. The lexicon notes its application to contexts where there is a clear distinction based on tribal or national identity.

1. Brown-Driver-Briggs (BDB) Lexicon:

• While BDB primarily focuses on Hebrew, it acknowledges the Greek influence in the Septuagint (LXX). For ἀλλόφυλος, it reinforces the meaning of “foreign” or “of another tribe,” reflecting its use to denote individuals or groups that are distinct from the native or familiar group.

In summary, ἀλλόφυλος (allophulos) translates to “of another tribe” or “of another race,” referring to individuals or groups that belong to different ethnic or national backgrounds. Strong’s Concordance, Thayer’s Lexicon, the LSJ Lexicon, and the BDB Lexicon all highlight its use to distinguish between different people groups based on their tribal or national identity.