### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective ἀληθής (alēthḗs, `{{G227}}`) is derived from the alpha privative (Α, meaning "not") and the verb λανθάνω (lanthanō, "to escape notice, to be hidden, to conceal"). Thus, its core meaning is "not hidden," "unconcealed," or "manifest." This etymological root reveals a fundamental aspect of truth: it is that which is open, revealed, and not obscured by deception or illusion.
The semantic range of ἀληθής extends beyond mere factual accuracy to encompass genuineness, reality, sincerity, and reliability. It describes that which corresponds to reality, is free from falsehood, and can be trusted. It can refer to:
1. **Persons:** One who is truthful, reliable, and sincere (e.g., [[John 7:18]]).
2. **Statements or Testimonies:** That which is factual, accurate, and corresponds to reality (e.g., [[John 4:18]]).
3. **Things or Concepts:** That which is genuine, real, authentic, or truly what it purports to be (e.g., [[1 John 2:8]]).
It stands in direct opposition to anything false, deceptive, or illusory, emphasizing transparency and integrity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἀληθής appears frequently in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospel of John, where it is often applied to God and Jesus Christ, underscoring their inherent nature as truth.
* **God as ἀληθής:** God's nature is inherently truthful and reliable. [[John 3:33]] states, "God is true," affirming His absolute trustworthiness. Similarly, [[Romans 3:4]] declares, "Let God be true though every man a liar," emphasizing divine veracity even in the face of human falsehood. [[1 Thessalonians 1:9]] speaks of turning "to God from idols, to serve the living and true God," distinguishing the genuine God from lifeless idols. [[1 John 5:20]] identifies Jesus as the one who has given understanding "so that we may know Him who is true; and we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life."
* **Jesus as ἀληθής:** Jesus consistently presents Himself and is presented as the embodiment of ἀληθής. He is "the true light" ([[John 1:9]]), "the true bread from heaven" ([[John 6:32]]), and "the true vine" ([[John 15:1]]). In Revelation, Christ is called "He who is true" ([[Revelation 3:7]], [[Revelation 3:14]]) and "Faithful and True" ([[Revelation 19:11]]), highlighting His unwavering reliability and genuine nature. Jesus' testimony about Himself is ἀληθής ([[John 8:14]]), even when challenged, because His origin and destiny are from God.
* **Truthfulness of Statements/Testimonies:** ἀληθής is frequently used to describe the veracity of statements or testimonies. The Samaritan woman acknowledges Jesus' words as ἀληθής ([[John 4:18]]). The crowd confirms that "all that John said about this man was true" ([[John 10:41]]). Pilate's question, "What is truth?" ([[John 18:38]]), stands in stark contrast to Jesus' self-identification as the Truth ([[John 14:6]]). The apostle John attests to the ἀληθής nature of his eye-witness account of the crucifixion ([[John 19:35]]). Paul encourages believers to focus on "whatever is true" ([[Philippians 4:8]]), and Titus affirms a "true testimony" concerning the Cretans ([[Titus 1:13]]).
* **Genuineness/Reality:** The term can also denote the genuine or real nature of things. The "true tabernacle" in [[Hebrews 8:2]] refers to the heavenly reality, of which the earthly tabernacle was a copy. [[1 Peter 5:12]] refers to "the true grace of God," emphasizing its authentic and reliable nature.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of ἀληθής is enriched by examining its relationship with other key biblical terms:
* **ἀλήθεια (alētheia, `{{G225}}`):** This is the noun form of ἀληθής, meaning "truth." While ἀληθής describes that which *is* true, ἀλήθεια refers to the abstract concept or concrete reality of truth itself. The adjective ἀληθής describes something characterized by ἀλήθεια.
* **ἀληθινός (alēthinos, `{{G228}}`):** This adjective also means "true," "genuine," or "real," but often carries a stronger connotation of ultimate reality, archetypal truth, or divine authenticity, in contrast to a mere copy, shadow, or imitation. For example, [[John 1:9]] speaks of Christ as "the true light that enlightens every man" (using ἀληθινός), implying He is the ultimate, genuine light, not merely a factual one. While ἀληθής emphasizes "not hidden" or "factual," ἀληθινός often points to the "ideal" or "ultimate" reality. Both are used for Christ, but with subtle nuances.
* **δίκαιος (dikaios, `{{G1342}}`):** "Righteous" or "just." Truth and righteousness are often intertwined. A just person acts truthfully, and truth is a prerequisite for justice. God's truthfulness is intrinsically linked to His righteousness.
* **πιστός (pistos, `{{G4103}}`):** "Faithful" or "trustworthy." A ἀληθής person or statement is inherently πιστός. The reliability implied by ἀληθής leads to trustworthiness. Christ is called "Faithful and True" ([[Revelation 19:11]]), combining these two essential attributes.
* **Antonyms:** The primary antonyms include ψευδής (pseudēs, `{{G5571}}`, "false"), ψεύδομαι (pseudomai, `{{G5574}}`, "to lie"), and ψεύδος (pseudos, `{{G5579}}`, "falsehood, lie"). These terms represent the opposite of being unconcealed and genuine.
### Theological Significance
The concept of ἀληθής holds profound theological significance, shaping our understanding of God, Christ, and the nature of reality.
* **Divine Veracity:** The inherent ἀληθής nature of God is foundational to biblical theology. It assures believers that God is not a deceiver, that His promises are reliable, and that His Word is trustworthy. This divine veracity is the bedrock upon which faith is built. God "cannot lie" ([[Titus 1:2]]), making His revelation absolutely dependable.
* **Christ's Revelation and Identity:** Jesus Christ is the ultimate embodiment and revealer of ἀληθής. As the "true light," "true bread," and "true vine," He reveals the genuine reality of God's provision and life. His claims about Himself are not mere assertions but statements of His very being, which is ἀληθής because He originates from the ἀληθής God. He is the Truth made manifest, providing a clear and unconcealed path to God.
* **Discernment in a Fallen World:** In a world marred by sin, deception, and illusion (Satan is the "father of lies," [[John 8:44]]), the concept of ἀληθής provides a critical standard for discernment. Believers are called to distinguish between what is genuinely true and what is false, relying on the ἀληθής revelation of God in Scripture and in Christ.
* **Ethical Imperative:** The ἀληθής nature of God and Christ serves as an ethical imperative for believers. Christians are called to "speak truth each one of you with his neighbor" ([[Ephesians 4:25]]) and to live lives characterized by sincerity, genuineness, and integrity, reflecting the unconcealed reality of their faith. This means living authentically, without hypocrisy or hidden motives.
* **Foundation for Relationship:** A relationship with God is predicated on His ἀληθής nature. We can trust Him, rely on His promises, and believe His Word because He is fundamentally ἀληθής. This trustworthiness fosters a deep and secure relationship of faith.
### Summary
The Greek word ἀληθής (alēthḗs, `{{G227}}`) signifies that which is "unconcealed," "manifest," "genuine," and "reliable." Rooted in the idea of not being hidden, it describes truth not merely as factual accuracy but as an inherent quality of reality and integrity. Biblically, ἀληθής is a defining attribute of God and Jesus Christ, underscoring their absolute trustworthiness, authenticity, and role as the ultimate source of reality. It contrasts sharply with falsehood and deception, serving as a vital concept for discerning spiritual truth, understanding divine revelation, and guiding ethical conduct for believers who are called to live lives of genuine sincerity. The profound theological significance of ἀληθής lies in its assurance of God's unwavering veracity and Christ's embodiment of ultimate reality, forming the bedrock of Christian faith and experience.
TRV