### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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