### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **alētheúō**, represented by `{{G226}}`, means to **be true** in doctrine and profession, or to **speak (tell) the truth**. It is a specific term that appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting its focused application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G226}}` is used to describe the act of communicating truth within the community of believers. In Ephesians, it is presented as a vital component of spiritual maturity, where **speaking the truth** in love leads to growth into Christ, who is the **head** [[Ephesians 4:15]]. In contrast, its use in Galatians highlights the potential for conflict that can arise from telling the truth, questioning if the act has made the speaker an **enemy** to the recipients [[Galatians 4:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context and purpose of `{{G226}}`:
* `{{G26}}` **agápē** (love): This word, defined as affection or benevolence, is directly paired with `{{G226}}` to show that truth must be communicated in **love** [[Ephesians 4:15]].
* `{{G2190}}` **echthrós** (enemy): This term for a hostile adversary provides the stark contrast to speaking truth, suggesting that truth can be perceived as an attack, turning the speaker into an **enemy** [[Galatians 4:16]].
* `{{G837}}` **auxánō** (to grow): This word emphasizes the intended result of speaking the truth in love, which is to **grow up** and mature spiritually [[Ephesians 4:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G226}}` is found in its application within Christian fellowship.
* **Truth and Love:** The act of **speaking the truth** is qualified by the manner in which it is done. It is meant to be done **in love**, suggesting that truth without love is incomplete or potentially harmful [[Ephesians 4:15]].
* **Maturity in Christ:** The ultimate goal of **speaking the truth** is not merely to convey facts but to foster spiritual growth, so believers may **grow up into him** in all things, who is the head, Christ [[Ephesians 4:15]].
* **Confrontational Nature of Truth:** The use of `{{G226}}` in Galatians reveals that speaking truth can result in being seen as an **enemy** [[Galatians 4:16]]. This highlights that truth can be challenging and may lead to relational friction.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G226}}` defines more than the simple act of telling the truth; it frames it as a crucial practice for Christian maturity. It is presented as an action that must be balanced with **love** `{{G26}}` to achieve its intended purpose of spiritual growth. At the same time, its usage acknowledges the reality that speaking truth can be a difficult task that may create hostility, framing it as a vital, though sometimes costly, element of faithful doctrine and profession.
TRV