Brief Overview of ἀλήθεια (G225)

The Greek word ἀλήθεια (aletheia) translates to “truth” in English. It generally denotes the concept of reality, correctness, or factual accuracy. In biblical and philosophical contexts, ἀλήθεια refers to the state of being in accordance with fact or reality, as opposed to falsehood or error. It is a significant term in Christian theology, reflecting the divine truth revealed in scripture and the nature of Christ as embodying truth.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• G225 ἀλήθεια (aletheia): Strong’s Concordance defines ἀλήθεια as “truth.” It is used to denote the quality of being true, both in factual and moral senses. The term appears frequently in the New Testament, often in discussions about divine revelation, the nature of Jesus Christ, and the ethical implications of living in truth. For instance, in John 14:6, Jesus says, “I am the way, the truth, and the life,” indicating that truth is a fundamental aspect of His identity and mission.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer’s Lexicon describes ἀλήθεια as “truth” and emphasizes its use to denote the reality or fact of a matter, as opposed to falsehood. It includes references to the concept of truth as revealed by God and exemplified in Christ. Thayer’s also highlights its use in philosophical and theological contexts, where it signifies the ultimate reality and moral truth as opposed to mere appearances.

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

• The LSJ Lexicon describes ἀλήθεια as “truth” and provides detailed usage in both classical and biblical Greek. It notes that the term is used to describe both the objective reality of facts and the moral dimension of truthfulness. The lexicon includes various examples from classical literature to illustrate how ἀλήθεια is applied in different contexts, reflecting its broad application across different genres.

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

• The BDB Lexicon includes ἀλήθεια in its entries, defining it as “truth.” It emphasizes the term’s use in biblical texts to refer to the nature of divine truth and moral integrity. The lexicon also discusses the term’s application in contrast to falsehood and deception, highlighting its significance in theological discourse.

In summary, ἀλήθεια (aletheia) means “truth,” encompassing both factual accuracy and moral integrity. Strong’s Concordance, Thayer’s Lexicon, the LSJ Lexicon, and the BDB Lexicon all affirm its role in describing divine revelation, the nature of Christ, and ethical living. The term is integral to understanding Christian doctrine and the broader philosophical discussions on the nature of reality and truth.