Understanding ἀρχή (arche) Strong’s G746: The Divine Authority that Reveals God’s Sovereignty from Beginning to End

Pronunciation Guide: ar-KHAY

Basic Definition

Strong’s G746: ἀρχή denotes a primary and foundational beginning, origin, or first cause. It carries the dual meaning of temporal primacy (being first in time) and authoritative primacy (being first in rank or power). This word communicates both the concept of origination and the idea of ruling authority or sovereign power.

Etymology and Morphology

• Noun (feminine)
• Root: derived from ἄρχω (archō), meaning “to be first, to rule”
• Primary usage in narrative and doctrinal passages
• Frequent appearance in cosmological and theological contexts
• Common in both Classical and Koine Greek

ἀρχή Morphology:

• ἀρχή (nominative singular) – beginning/ruler
• ἀρχῆς (genitive singular) – of beginning/ruler
• ἀρχῇ (dative singular) – in/with/by beginning/ruler
• ἀρχήν (accusative singular) – beginning/ruler
• ἀρχαί (nominative plural) – beginnings/rulers
• ἀρχῶν (genitive plural) – of beginnings/rulers
• ἀρχαῖς (dative plural) – in/with beginnings/rulers
• ἀρχάς (accusative plural) – beginnings/rulers

Origin & History

In classical Greek literature, ἀρχή held significant philosophical importance. Aristotle used it in his “Metaphysics” to discuss first principles and causes, while Plato employed it in “Republic” when examining the foundations of justice and governance. The term was particularly significant in pre-Socratic philosophy, where thinkers like Thales sought the ἀρχή or primary element of all things.

In the Septuagint (LXX), ἀρχή appears frequently, often translating the Hebrew רֵאשִׁית (reshit) and רֹאשׁ (rosh). Its usage in Genesis 1:1 established its theological significance in describing both temporal beginnings and divine sovereignty. The word carries forward this rich theological heritage into the New Testament.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• The absolute beginning or origin of something
• Foundational principle or first cause
• Ruling authority or sovereign power
• Corner or edge (in physical objects)
• First in a series or sequence

ἀρχή Translation Options:

• “Beginning” – When referring to temporal or sequential starts
• “First Principle” – In philosophical or foundational contexts
• “Authority” – When denoting ruling power or jurisdiction
• “Corner” – In architectural or physical contexts
• “Origin” – When emphasizing source or causation

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἀρχή serves as a crucial theological term, especially in discussions of creation, authority, and the nature of the Messiah. Its first appearance in Matthew 19:4 connects to creation, while its usage in John 1:1 carries profound theological weight regarding the eternal existence of the Word.

The term appears in several key theological contexts:

• “But from the beginning [ἀρχή] of creation, God made them male and female.” Matthew 19:4
• “In the beginning [ἀρχή] was the Word.” John 1:1
• “He is the beginning [ἀρχή], the firstborn from the dead.” Colossians 1:18
• “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning [ἀρχή] and the end.” Revelation 21:6
• “For by Him all things were created… whether thrones or dominions or rulers [ἀρχαί] or authorities.” Colossians 1:16

Cultural Insights

In ancient Jewish thought, the concept of “beginning” (רֵאשִׁית, reshit) was deeply connected to wisdom and purpose. The first word of the Torah, בְּרֵאשִׁית (bereshit), contains this root and was understood by ancient rabbis to mean not just “in the beginning” but “for the sake of the beginning” or “by means of the beginning.” This understanding influenced the New Testament authors’ use of ἀρχή, especially in Johannine literature.

The word also carried significant political meaning in the Greco-Roman world, where ἀρχή represented the authority of rulers and the foundation of governmental power. This political dimension adds depth to New Testament passages discussing spiritual authorities and the supremacy of the Messiah over all powers.

Theological Significance

The use of ἀρχή in Scripture reveals profound truths about God’s nature and work. It presents Him as both the origin of all things and the supreme authority over creation. This dual aspect of the word beautifully captures the truth that God’s authority stems from His role as Creator – He rules because He originated all things.

In Christology, ἀρχή plays a crucial role in expressing the eternal nature and supreme authority of the Messiah. When John 1:1 states that the Word was “in the beginning,” it establishes Yeshua’s eternal existence and divine nature. The term appears again in Revelation 3:14, where Yeshua is called “the Beginning of God’s creation,” highlighting His role in both creation and new creation.

Personal Application

Understanding ἀρχή challenges us to recognize God’s absolute authority in our lives while finding comfort in His role as the originator of all things. When we face uncertainty or chaos, we can rest in knowing that the One who was “in the beginning” remains sovereign over all circumstances.

This word reminds us that true authority comes from God alone, and any authority we possess is delegated from Him. This should inspire both humility in leadership and proper submission to godly authority, always remembering that our ultimate allegiance belongs to the One who is the true ἀρχή of all things.

Related Words

• κεφαλή (kephalē) [kef-al-AY] – head, authority; emphasizes position of leadership rather than origination See G2776
• ἐξουσία (exousia) [ex-oo-SEE-ah] – authority, right, power; focuses on delegated authority rather than inherent authority See G1849
• θρόνος (thronos) [THRO-nos] – throne; represents the seat of authority rather than the source of authority See G2362
• πρῶτος (prōtos) [PRO-tos] – first, foremost; emphasizes order or sequence rather than causation See G4413

Did you Know?

• The English words “archbishop,” “architect,” and “archive” all derive from ἀρχή, reflecting its dual meaning of “first” and “rule.”
• In ancient Greek mathematics, the point was called ἀρχή as it was considered the beginning of all geometric shapes, showing how fundamental this concept was to Greek thought.
• The Jewish concept of רֵאשִׁית (reshit) was so important that an ancient midrash teaches the world was created for the sake of those things called “beginning” – the Torah, Israel, and the fear of the Lord.

Remember This

ἀρχή reveals the magnificent truth that God’s supreme authority flows from His role as the originator of all things – He rules because He created, and He created to rule.