Understanding ἀντίθεσις (antithesis) Strong’s G477: The False Knowledge that Opposes Divine Truth

Pronunciation Guide: an-tith’-e-sis

Basic Definition

Strong’s G477: ἀντίθεσις refers to an opposition, contrast, or conflict between ideas or teachings. In biblical context, it specifically denotes false teachings or knowledge that stands in opposition to divine truth. The word carries a strong connotation of intentional contradiction or resistance against established doctrine.

Etymology and Morphology

• Compound word formed from ἀντί (anti, “against”) and θέσις (thesis, “position”)
• Noun (feminine)
• Primary usage in teaching/doctrinal contexts
• Found in philosophical and rhetorical literature
• Rare in New Testament (hapax legomenon)

ἀντίθεσις Morphology:

• ἀντίθεσις (nominative singular) – opposition
• ἀντιθέσεως (genitive singular) – of opposition
• ἀντιθέσει (dative singular) – in/with opposition
• ἀντιθέσεις (accusative plural) – oppositions

Origin & History

The term ἀντίθεσις has a rich history in classical Greek rhetoric and philosophy. Aristotle used it extensively in his works on logic and rhetoric to describe contrasting ideas or arguments. In the Rhetoric (Book III), he discusses antithesis as a powerful rhetorical device for emphasizing differences and creating memorable discourse.

In Hellenistic literature, particularly in the works of Plutarch, the word evolved to describe not just rhetorical contrast but philosophical opposition. The term gained particular significance in the context of competing schools of thought, where it described fundamental disagreements between philosophical systems.

The Septuagint (LXX) rarely uses this term, suggesting its primary development was in philosophical rather than religious contexts prior to its New Testament usage.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• A direct opposition or contrast between ideas
• False teaching that contradicts truth
• Competing philosophical or theological positions
• Systematic opposition to established doctrine

ἀντίθεσις Translation Options:

• “Oppositions” – Emphasizes the active nature of the conflict between ideas
• “Contradictions” – Highlights the logical incompatibility with truth
• “Antitheses” – Technical term preserving the rhetorical/philosophical context
• “Counter-positions” – Emphasizes the systematic nature of the opposition

Biblical Usage

The word ἀντίθεσις appears only once in the New Testament, in 1 Timothy 6:20, where Paul warns Timothy against “the oppositions [ἀντιθέσεις] of what is falsely called knowledge.” This context is particularly significant as it appears in Paul’s final warnings to Timothy about protecting the faith against false teaching.

While the word itself appears only once, the concept it represents is addressed throughout the New Testament, particularly in the pastoral epistles where Paul confronts various forms of false teaching threatening the early church.

• “O Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you, avoiding worldly and empty chatter and the oppositions [ἀντιθέσεις] of what is falsely called knowledge” 1 Timothy 6:20

Cultural Insights

In the first century, various philosophical and religious movements were competing for influence in the Greco-Roman world. One significant movement was early Gnosticism, which claimed to possess secret, superior knowledge (gnosis). The use of ἀντίθεσις in 1 Timothy 6:20 likely refers to these early Gnostic teachings that set themselves in opposition to apostolic doctrine.

The term would have resonated particularly with educated Hellenistic readers familiar with philosophical debates. The warning against “what is falsely called knowledge” (τῆς ψευδωνύμου γνώσεως) suggests that some were presenting their opposing views as sophisticated philosophical alternatives to the apostolic teaching.

Theological Significance

The use of ἀντίθεσις in the New Testament reveals a crucial spiritual principle: truth and error are fundamentally opposed. This opposition isn’t merely academic but has profound spiritual implications. The warning against false knowledge reminds us that not all teaching that claims to be spiritual or enlightening is actually true or beneficial.

This concept connects deeply with the broader biblical theme of spiritual warfare and the ongoing conflict between God’s truth and Satan’s deceptions. Just as יהוה (Yahweh) declared in Isaiah 55:8-9, His thoughts and ways are higher than human thoughts and ways. Any teaching that sets itself up in opposition to divine revelation must be carefully examined and rejected if found contrary to Scripture.

The presence of ἀντίθεσις in Paul’s final charge to Timothy underscores the perpetual need for spiritual discernment and faithful adherence to sound doctrine in every generation.

Personal Application

In our modern context, we face numerous ideologies and teachings that set themselves in opposition to biblical truth. Like Timothy, we must guard against false knowledge while holding firmly to sound doctrine. This requires developing spiritual discernment through regular study of Scripture, prayer, and submission to the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

The warning against ἀντίθεσις challenges us to examine our own beliefs and ensure they align with biblical truth rather than contemporary philosophies that oppose it. It calls us to be vigilant in protecting both our own faith and the faith of those we influence.

Related Words

• ἀντίκειμαι (antikeimai) – to be opposed, to be an adversary (anti-kay-my) – Describes active opposition or resistance See G480
• ψευδώνυμος (pseudōnymos) – falsely named (psyoo-do-noo-mos) – Refers to things falsely labeled or misrepresented See G5581
• ἀντιλέγω (antilegō) – to speak against (anti-leg-o) – Describes verbal opposition or contradiction See G483
• ἐναντίος (enantios) – opposite, opposed (en-an-tee-os) – Describes that which is contrary or opposed See G1727

Did you Know?

• The modern English word “antithesis” comes directly from this Greek word ἀντίθεσις, maintaining nearly identical meaning and usage in contemporary rhetoric and literature.
• The concept of ἀντίθεσις was so important in ancient rhetoric that it became one of the fundamental principles of classical education, teaching students to understand and articulate opposing viewpoints to strengthen their arguments.
• In early church history, Marcion of Sinope (85-160 AD) wrote a work called “Antitheses” where he contrasted the God of the Old Testament with the God of the New Testament, exemplifying exactly the kind of false teaching Paul warned against using this term.

Remember This

ἀντίθεσις serves as a powerful reminder that truth and error cannot coexist – we must choose whom we will serve and what knowledge we will embrace.