Brief Overview of ἄλφα (G1: Alpha)

ἄλφα (Alpha):

The Greek word “ἄλφα” (Alpha) is the first letter of the Greek alphabet and is used symbolically in various contexts within the New Testament. In the biblical context, “Alpha” often represents the beginning or the first in a series. It is prominently used in the phrase “Alpha and Omega,” or Aleph and Tav in the Hebrew alphabet to signify the beginning and the end, and is symbolic of God’s eternal nature and completeness.

Detailed Overview Incorporating Other Concordances

ἄλφα (Alpha):

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• Meaning: Strong’s Concordance identifies “Alpha” (G1) as the first letter of the Greek alphabet. Symbolically, it denotes the beginning or the first in a sequence. In the Bible, it is most notably used in conjunction with “Omega” to represent the comprehensive nature of God as the beginning and the end (Revelation 1:8; 21:6; 22:13). This usage emphasizes the eternal and all-encompassing nature of God.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Meaning: Thayer’s Lexicon explains that “Alpha” is used figuratively in the New Testament to denote the first or beginning of something. It is part of the phrase “Alpha and Omega,” which signifies the totality and completeness of God, illustrating that He is both the origin and the consummation of all things.

1. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words:

• Meaning: Vine’s Dictionary highlights that “Alpha” is used symbolically in the phrase “Alpha and Omega” to represent the entirety of time and existence. It reflects the concept of God being the starting point and the final culmination of all things, encapsulating His eternal and sovereign nature.

1. Louw-Nida Greek-English Lexicon:

• Meaning: The Louw-Nida Lexicon notes that “Alpha” is used in a symbolic sense to represent the first in a series or the beginning of something. In biblical texts, it is part of the symbolic phrase “Alpha and Omega,” denoting God’s eternal and all-encompassing nature.

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1. Moulton-Milligan Vocabulary of the Greek New Testament:

• Meaning: Moulton-Milligan explains that “Alpha” serves as a symbol of the beginning. When paired with “Omega,” it conveys the idea of completeness and the full spectrum of existence, reflecting the eternal nature of God and His ultimate authority over all things.

Summary:
“Alpha” is the first letter of the Greek alphabet and is used symbolically in the New Testament to represent the beginning or the first in a series. It is prominently featured in the phrase “Alpha and Omega,” which signifies God’s eternal nature and sovereignty as the beginning and the end of all things. This symbolic use emphasizes God’s comprehensive and eternal presence throughout all time.