Understanding ἄτερ (ater) Strong’s G817: The Preposition of Divine Absence and Separation in Luke’s Gospel

Pronunciation Guide: AH-ter

Basic Definition

Strong’s G817: ἄτερ is a specialized preposition meaning “without” or “in the absence of,” particularly emphasizing complete separation or absence. In Biblical Greek, it carries a distinct nuance of being apart from someone or something, often with implications of divine providence or supernatural intervention. The word appears exclusively in Luke’s writings, suggesting careful selection for specific theological purposes.

Etymology and Morphology

• Part of Speech: Preposition
• Origin: Classical Greek
• Usage Context: Narrative and dialogue sections
• Literary Style: Formal, precise language
• Frequency: Rare (only 2 occurrences in NT)

ἄτερ Morphology:

• ἄτερ (invariable preposition) – without, apart from
  [Note: As a preposition, ἄτερ does not have inflected forms]

Origin & History

The word ἄτερ has deep roots in classical Greek literature, appearing in works as early as Homer’s Iliad. In classical usage, it often carried the sense of separation or deprivation, frequently used in poetic contexts. Xenophon employed it in his Anabasis to describe military situations where troops were “without” proper equipment or support.

In the Septuagint (LXX), ἄτερ appears sparingly, notably in translations of passages dealing with divine absence or human isolation from God’s presence. The translator of Job uses it to render Hebrew concepts of separation and abandonment.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• Complete separation or absence from someone/something
• Independent action without consultation
• Divine providence working without human intervention
• Absolute deprivation or lack

ἄτερ Translation Options:

• “without” – Most common translation, emphasizing complete separation
• “apart from” – Useful when stressing physical or spiritual distance
• “in the absence of” – Helpful for formal or legal contexts
• “independent of” – Appropriate when emphasizing autonomous action

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἄτερ appears exclusively in Luke’s writings, specifically in Luke 22:6 and Luke 22:35. The first usage describes Judas seeking to betray Jesus “without (ἄτερ) a crowd,” while the second recalls Jesus sending out His disciples “without (ἄτερ) purse, bag, or sandals.”

The strategic placement of these occurrences in Luke 22 is significant, as they bookend critical moments in the passion narrative. The word choice emphasizes both human schemes (Judas) and divine provision (disciples’ mission).

Cross References:

• “And he promised and sought opportunity to betray Him to them in the absence of the multitude [ἄτερ].” Luke 22:6
• “And He said to them, When I sent you out without [ἄτερ] purse and bag and sandals, you did not lack anything, did you?” Luke 22:35

Cultural Insights

In ancient Jewish culture, the concept of separation or absence had profound implications, particularly in religious contexts. The use of ἄτερ in Luke 22:6 reflects a common practice in Jerusalem where controversial actions were often conducted away from the crowds during festivals to avoid public disturbance. This cultural context helps explain why the religious leaders sought to arrest Jesus “without a crowd.”

The second usage in Luke 22:35 connects to the Jewish practice of shaliach (sending forth of representatives), where messengers were often sent with minimal provisions to demonstrate complete dependence on God’s provision. This practice had roots in the Exodus narrative, where Israel learned to trust in divine provision in the wilderness.

Theological Significance

The theological implications of ἄτερ in Luke’s Gospel are profound. In the case of Judas (Luke 22:6), the word emphasizes human attempts to operate independently of divine oversight, ironically highlighting God’s sovereign control even over acts of betrayal. The usage regarding the disciples’ mission (Luke 22:35) demonstrates the principle of divine provision and the sufficiency of God’s care for His servants.

These occurrences create a powerful contrast between human schemes conducted “without” witnesses and God’s provision for those who serve Him. The word thus becomes a theological marker for both human independence from God (leading to failure) and divine provision (leading to success).

Personal Application

The dual usage of ἄτερ in Luke 22 presents a challenging application for believers today. Like Judas, we may be tempted to act “without” accountability, seeking to hide our actions from others. However, the positive example of the disciples shows that when we walk in obedience to God’s calling, even going “without” worldly security, we experience His faithful provision.

This word study reminds us that true security lies not in hiding from others but in transparent dependence on God. When we embrace our need for both community and divine provision, we position ourselves to experience the fullness of God’s care.

Related Words

• χωρίς (chōris) – without, apart from, separate from; similar but more common in NT, emphasizing physical separation – See G5565
• ἄνευ (aneu) – without, aside from; emphasizes absence or lack – See G427
• δίχα (dicha) – apart from, separate from; focuses on division or discord – See G1364

Did you Know?

• Although ἄτερ appears only twice in the New Testament, it was commonly used in ancient Greek medical writings, which aligns with Luke’s background as a physician and his precise use of language.
• The word ἄτερ continues to influence modern Greek, where it appears in compounds indicating absence or lack, such as “atermon” (endless) and “ateroskopos” (aimless).
• The strategic placement of both uses of ἄτερ in Luke 22 creates a literary inclusio (bookend structure) that emphasizes the contrast between human schemes and divine provision in the passion narrative.

Remember This

ἄτερ stands as a powerful reminder that what we do “without” others watching reveals our true character, while going “without” worldly security in obedience to God reveals His faithful provision.