The Greek word heteróglōssos, represented by G2084, means other-tongued or a foreigner. This term, which appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, is formed from the words ἕτερος (héteros) and γλῶσσα (glossa). It specifically refers to someone who speaks a different language.
The sole use of G2084 is found in a quotation from the law. The passage states that the Lord G2962 will speak G2980 to his people G2992 using men of other tongues G2084 and other G2087 lips G5491. Despite this communication through foreigners, the verse concludes that the people will still not hear G1522 him 1 Corinthians 14:21.
Several related words from its biblical context illuminate the meaning of heteróglōssos:
- G2087 héteros (other or different): This word forms the first part of heteróglōssos and emphasizes the concept of difference. In the same verse, it is used to describe "other G2087 lips," reinforcing the idea of a foreign or unfamiliar manner of speaking 1 Corinthians 14:21.
- G2980 laléō (to talk, i.e. utter words): This verb describes the act of communication. The Lord declares He will speak G2980 through these other-tongued individuals to reach His people 1 Corinthians 14:21.
- G2992 laós (a people): This identifies the intended audience of the message. The communication via other tongues is directed at "this people" G2992, who are described elsewhere as God's chosen people Hebrews 8:10.
- G1522 eisakoúō (to listen to): This word is used to express the outcome of the communication. Despite God speaking through foreign tongues, the prophecy states that the people will not hear G1522 or listen to Him 1 Corinthians 14:21.
The theological significance of G2084 is derived entirely from its singular context, which illustrates a specific dynamic between God and humanity.
- Divine Communication: The term highlights God's method of using a foreign or unfamiliar means—men of other tongues G2084—to speak G2980 His message to His people G2992. This demonstrates God's sovereignty in choosing His messengers.
- A Sign to Unbelievers: The use of other tongues is framed as a sign directed at an unresponsive audience. The Lord G2962 states that even with this method, "will they not hear me" 1 Corinthians 14:21, connecting the use of foreign speech to the people's failure to listen. This is echoed in passages where people honor God with their lips G5491 but their hearts are far from him Mark 7:6.
- Prophetic Fulfillment: The statement is introduced as something "written in the law" G1125 1 Corinthians 14:21, indicating that this method of communication and the people's subsequent rejection were foretold. This situates the event within the larger framework of God's scriptural plan, where things written in the law must be fulfilled Luke 24:44.
In summary, heteróglōssos G2084 is a highly specific term used only once in the Bible to mean other-tongued or a foreigner. Its sole appearance in scripture is within a quotation from the law, where it is used to describe God's plan to speak to His unresponsive people through an unconventional source. The term is therefore pivotal in understanding this specific prophetic context, illustrating a divine message delivered through foreign means to a people who would nevertheless refuse to hear.
TRV