### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **alēthinós**, represented by `{{G228}}`, defines that which is **truthful** and genuine. It appears 27 times across 25 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from ἀληθής, it moves beyond mere factual correctness to signify what is real, authentic, and ultimate, often contrasting a divine reality with its earthly or counterfeit counterpart.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G228}}` is used to describe the ultimate nature of God and Christ. Jesus refers to His Father as "the only **true** God" [[John 17:3]], a theme echoed when the Thessalonians turned from idols to serve the living and **true** God [[1 Thessalonians 1:9]]. Christ identifies Himself as the fulfillment of divine archetypes, such as the "**true** vine" [[John 15:1]] and the "**true** Light" [[John 1:9]]. The term also characterizes the nature of genuine worship, as the Father seeks "**true** worshippers" [[John 4:23]]. In Revelation, God's character is affirmed through His actions, with declarations that His ways are "just and **true**" [[Revelation 15:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of truth and authenticity:
* `{{G227}}` **alēthḗs** (true (as not concealing)): This is the root word for `alēthinós` and emphasizes truthfulness that is unconcealed and transparent. It is used to describe the new commandment as **true** in Christ and believers [[1 John 2:8]].
* `{{G225}}` **alḗtheia** (truth): This noun refers to the concept of truth itself. It is used alongside `alēthinós` when describing how **true** worshippers must worship the Father in spirit and in **truth** [[John 4:23]].
* `{{G4103}}` **pistós** (objectively, trustworthy; subjectively, trustful): Often translated as "faithful," this word is frequently paired with `alēthinós` to describe the character of God and His words. Christ is called the "faithful and **true** witness" [[Revelation 3:14]], and God's words are declared to be "**true** and faithful" [[Revelation 21:5]].
* `{{G1342}}` **díkaios** (equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively)): Meaning "just" or "righteous," this term is used with `alēthinós` to describe the perfect nature of God's judgments, which are both "**true** and righteous" [[Revelation 19:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G228}}` is immense, establishing a clear distinction between the divine original and all that is lesser or false.
* **Divine Reality:** The term is used to identify the one **true** God in contrast to false idols [[1 Thessalonians 1:9]] and to define eternal life as knowing Him [[John 17:3]]. It points to God as the ultimate source of all that is real.
* **Christ as the Ultimate Fulfillment:** Jesus is presented as the **true** substance of which Old Testament symbols were mere figures. He is the "**true** bread from heaven" [[John 6:32]] and the minister of the "**true** tabernacle," which was pitched by the Lord, not man [[Hebrews 8:2]]. The holy places made by hands are just "figures of the **true**" [[Hebrews 9:24]].
* **The Standard for Worship and Judgment:** God's ways are **true**, making Him the only rightful object of worship [[Revelation 15:3]]. Because His judgments are **true** [[Revelation 16:7]], He is qualified to judge and avenge righteously [[Revelation 6:10]].
* **The Believer's Sincere Approach:** The concept extends to the worshipper's required disposition. Believers are called to draw near to God with a "**true** heart" in full assurance of faith [[Hebrews 10:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G228}}` is far more than an adjective for correctness. It is a theological cornerstone defining what is genuine, ultimate, and divinely real. It establishes a contrast between the heavenly reality—the "**true** God," the "**true** Light," the "**true** tabernacle"—and their earthly shadows or counterfeits. From defining the very nature of God and Christ to setting the standard for judgment and the sincerity required of the human heart, `alēthinós` points believers toward the authentic and eternal source of all truth.
TRV