of uncertain affinity; (an-, the) other or different:--altered, else, next (day), one, (an-)other, some, strange.
Transliteration:héteros
Pronunciation:het'-er-os
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word `{{G2087}}` (héteros) primarily denotes "other" or "different," specifically emphasizing a distinction in kind, quality, or nature, as opposed to mere numerical difference. While often translated simply as "another," its nuanced meaning frequently implies a qualitative dissimilarity. This contrasts sharply with `{{G24}}` (állos), which typically signifies "another of the same kind." The semantic range of `{{G2087}}` extends to encompass concepts such as "altered," "else," "next" (as in "next day," implying a different day), "one" (in a pair of distinct items), "some," and "strange." Its root is considered to be of uncertain affinity, yet its usage clearly marks a departure from identity or similarity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The precise meaning of `{{G2087}}` often carries significant weight in its biblical contexts.
In a straightforward sense, it can denote a numerical "other" where the items are distinct but not necessarily qualitatively different, such as "another day" [[Acts 20:15]] or "one of two" [[Matthew 6:24]]. Here, the emphasis is on a distinct item from a set.
However, its theological import becomes pronounced when it highlights a qualitative difference. A prime example is Paul's strong admonition in [[Galatians 1:6-7]], where he marvels that some are so quickly turning to a "different gospel" (*héteros euangelion*). This is not merely "another" gospel alongside the true one, but a gospel of an entirely different, and therefore false, kind. It is fundamentally incompatible with the true gospel. Similarly, in [[2 Corinthians 11:4]], Paul warns against those who preach "another Jesus" (*héteros Iēsous*), or offer "a different spirit" (*pneuma héteron*), or "a different gospel" (*euangelion héteron*). In each instance, `{{G2087}}` underscores a radical, qualitative departure from the truth, implying a counterfeit or a perversion rather than a mere alternative.
In [[Luke 9:29]], the word describes the transfiguration of Jesus, where "the appearance of His face was altered" (*heteron*). Here, it signifies a change or transformation into a different, glorious state.
In [[Acts 2:4]], the disciples "began to speak with other tongues" (*héterais glōssais*), indicating languages that were distinct and foreign to their native tongues, rather than merely more of the same. This usage emphasizes the diverse nature of the languages.
In [[Romans 7:23]], Paul speaks of seeing "another law" (*héteron nomon*) in his members, warring against the law of his mind. This "other law" is distinct in its nature and purpose, being the law of sin.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most crucial related word to `{{G2087}}` is `{{G24}}` (állos), which means "another of the same kind." The distinction between `{{G2087}}` and `{{G24}}` is a classic point of New Testament Greek study and is vital for accurate interpretation. While `{{G24}}` might refer to a second apple from the same bushel, `{{G2087}}` would refer to an orange. This distinction is often maintained in the New Testament, though not rigidly in every single instance.
Other related concepts include:
* `{{G1308}}` (diaphoréō): To differ, to be different.
* `{{G245}}` (allotrios): Belonging to another, foreign, alien. This word often carries a sense of that which is fundamentally separate or hostile.
* Concepts of distinction, qualitative difference, alteration, foreignness, and, in a theological context, the perversion or falsification of truth.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2087}}` is profound, particularly in its capacity to delineate truth from error. When applied to core doctrines, such as the gospel or the person of Christ, `{{G2087}}` functions as a strong marker of theological incompatibility. It communicates that any "other" gospel, "other" Jesus, or "other" spirit is not merely an alternative path, but a fundamentally different and therefore false entity. This highlights the singular, unique, and non-negotiable nature of the true gospel and the person of Jesus Christ. There is no valid "another of the same kind" (állos) when it comes to the means of salvation or the object of faith; any deviation is an "other of a different kind" (héteros), leading to spiritual danger. This precision in language underscores the biblical insistence on orthodoxy and the rejection of syncretism or doctrinal compromise. It serves as a linguistic safeguard against dilution of the revealed truth.
### Summary
`{{G2087}}` (héteros) is a Greek word meaning "other" or "different," primarily denoting a distinction in kind, quality, or nature. Its usage is critical in discerning qualitative differences, particularly in theological contexts where it distinguishes the true from the false (e.g., "a different gospel" in [[Galatians 1:6]]). This contrasts with `{{G24}}` (állos), which signifies "another of the same kind." The precise application of `{{G2087}}` underscores the unique and singular nature of biblical truth, serving as a linguistic sentinel against doctrinal deviation and highlighting the absolute incompatibility of genuine faith with any counterfeit.
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