Pronunciation Guide: AH-los

Basic Definition

Strong’s G243: ἄλλος denotes “another” or “other” of the same kind, distinguishing it from ἕτερος (heteros) which typically means “another of a different kind.” It indicates numerical distinction while often implying qualitative similarity. The word is fundamental to expressing alternatives, sequences, and divine choices throughout Scripture.

Etymology and Morphology

• Part of Speech: Adjective
• Origin: Proto-Indo-European *al- (“beyond, other”)
• Primary Usage: Narrative and didactic passages
• Register: Common in both literary and colloquial Greek
• Frequency: Appears 155 times in the New Testament

ἄλλος Morphology:

• ἄλλος (masculine nominative singular) – another
• ἄλλη (feminine nominative singular) – another
• ἄλλο (neuter nominative/accusative singular) – another
• ἄλλου (masculine/neuter genitive singular) – of another
• ἄλλῳ (masculine/neuter dative singular) – to/for another
• ἄλλοι (masculine nominative plural) – others
• ἄλλαι (feminine nominative plural) – others
• ἄλλα (neuter nominative/accusative plural) – others

Origin & History

The word ἄλλος has deep roots in classical Greek literature, appearing frequently in works from Homer onwards. In Homer’s Iliad, it often describes additional warriors or alternative courses of action, highlighting its role in expressing choices and sequences. Plato uses it extensively in his dialogues to present alternative philosophical arguments, demonstrating its importance in logical discourse.

Xenophon employs ἄλλος in his historical works to distinguish between different groups of people or sequential events, showing its versatility in narrative contexts. This usage pattern established the foundation for its later biblical applications.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• Another of the same kind or series
• An additional person or thing
• The remainder or rest of a group
• The other (of two)

ἄλλος Translation Options:

• “Another” – Best when emphasizing sequence or addition within same category
• “Other” – Preferred when distinguishing within a group
• “The rest” – Appropriate when referring to remainder of a group
• “Different” – Suitable when context implies distinction while maintaining same nature
• “Additional” – Useful when emphasizing supplementary nature

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἄλλος appears first in Matthew 2:12, where the Magi return “by another way,” symbolizing divine guidance toward alternative paths. This sets a pattern for its usage in contexts of divine direction and provision of alternatives.

The word is particularly prevalent in the Gospels, where it often appears in parables and teachings about the Kingdom of God. It helps structure sequences of events and distinguish between different groups while maintaining their essential connection to the main narrative.

Significant appearances include:

• “and having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed for their own country by another [ἄλλος] way.” Matthew 2:12
• “Another [ἄλλος] parable He put forth to them…” Matthew 13:24
• “Another [ἄλλος] of His disciples said to Him…” Matthew 8:21
• “And another [ἄλλος] angel came out of the temple…” Revelation 14:15
• “There are also many other [ἄλλος] things which Jesus did…” John 21:25

Cultural Insights

In ancient Jewish thought, the concept of alternatives and different paths was deeply connected to divine providence. The rabbinical principle of “eilu v’eilu divrei Elohim chaim” (these and these are the words of the living God) reflects this understanding that multiple valid alternatives can exist within God’s will.

The Septuagint’s use of ἄλλος often corresponds to the Hebrew אַחֵר (acher), particularly in narratives where God provides alternative paths or solutions. This connection enriches our understanding of how the word bridges Greek and Hebrew thought in expressing divine provision of choices.

Theological Significance

The frequent use of ἄλλος in Scripture underscores God’s sovereignty in providing alternatives and His wisdom in directing His people through various paths. It reminds us that the Lord often works through multiple means to accomplish His purposes, as seen in the multiple parables describing the same Kingdom truths or the various ways He reveals Himself to different people.

This word plays a crucial role in the New Testament’s presentation of spiritual gifts, where different (ἄλλος) gifts are distributed by the same Spirit, highlighting unity in diversity within the Body of the Messiah. It teaches us that God’s work often involves multiple complementary aspects rather than singular, exclusive options.

The use of ἄλλος in describing angelic beings and heavenly messengers also points to the diverse ways God administers His kingdom, showing that He employs various agents and methods in His divine economy.

Personal Application

Understanding ἄλλος challenges us to recognize God’s provision of alternatives in our own spiritual journey. When we face decisions or challenges, remembering that the Lord often provides “another way” can give us hope and wisdom in seeking His guidance.

This word encourages us to appreciate the variety of ways God works in different people’s lives while maintaining the unity of faith. It reminds us that our path may be different from others’ while still being fully within God’s perfect will.

Related Words

• ἕτερος (heteros) – another of a different kind, emphasizing distinction in nature rather than just number. See G2087
• λοιπός (loipos) – remaining, the rest, emphasizing what’s left in a group. See G3062
• διάφορος (diaphoros) – different, various, focusing on distinctiveness. See G1313
• ἀλλότριος (allotrios) – belonging to another, foreign, emphasizing ownership or origin. See G245

Did you Know?

• In modern Greek, ἄλλος still maintains its ancient meaning and is one of the most frequently used words in everyday conversation, showing its enduring linguistic significance.
• The word played a crucial role in early Christian theological discussions about the nature of the Trinity, helping to express how the Divine Persons are distinct yet of the same essence.
• The pattern of using ἄλλος in the Gospels’ parallel parables creates a literary device that helps readers understand different aspects of the same spiritual truth, much like viewing a diamond from different angles.

Remember This

ἄλλος reminds us that in God’s sovereign plan, there are often multiple paths to His purposes, each perfectly aligned with His will and wisdom.