### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **allēgoréō**, represented by `{{G238}}`, means **to allegorize**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The word is derived from terms meaning "other" and "to speak," signifying a method of speaking where one thing is used to represent another, revealing a deeper or symbolic meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G238}}` is in [[Galatians 4:24]], where it provides the key to interpreting a specific teaching. The apostle Paul presents the historical account of Hagar and Sarah as something to be understood allegorically. He states, "Which things are an **allegory**: for these are the **two** `{{G1417}}` covenants" [[Galatians 4:24]]. In this context, the term introduces a comparison where one covenant, associated with **Agar** `{{G28}}` and **mount** `{{G3735}}` **Sinai** `{{G4614}}`, is shown to produce or "gendereth to **bondage**" `{{G1397}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are crucial to understanding the context of this allegory:
* `{{G1242}}` **diathḗkē** (a disposition, i.e. (specially) a contract (especially a devisory will):--covenant, testament): This is the central concept being allegorized. The Bible speaks of God making a new **covenant** with His people [[Hebrews 8:8]].
* `{{G1397}}` **douleía** (slavery (ceremonially or figuratively):--bondage): This term describes the spiritual state produced by the covenant associated with Mount Sinai. Believers are told they have not received a spirit of **bondage** again to fear [[Romans 8:15]].
* `{{G1080}}` **gennáō** (to procreate (properly, of the father, but by extension of the mother); figuratively, to regenerate:--bear, beget, be born): This word explains the result of the Sinai covenant. In contrast to being born into bondage, whatever is **born** of God overcomes the world [[1 John 5:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G238}}` is tied directly to its single, powerful use in Galatians.
* **Contrasting Covenants:** The use of "allegory" serves to create a sharp theological contrast between the two covenants. One, represented by **Agar** `{{G28}}` from **mount** `{{G3735}}` **Sinai** `{{G4614}}`, results in **bondage** `{{G1397}}`, pointing to the Law [[Galatians 4:24]].
* **Bondage and Freedom:** By allegorizing, Paul illustrates the fundamental difference between living under law and living by promise. The covenant from Sinai is explicitly defined as one that "gendereth to **bondage**" [[Galatians 4:24]], setting the stage for the introduction of a covenant of freedom.
* **Typological Interpretation:** The term sanctions a method of biblical interpretation where historical figures and places are seen as types or symbols of deeper spiritual realities. In this case, **Agar** `{{G28}}` is explicitly used to represent the earthly Jerusalem which is in bondage [[Galatians 4:25]].
### Summary
In summary, while extremely rare, `{{G238}}` **allēgoréō** is a pivotal term that unlocks a major theological argument in the book of Galatians. It functions as an interpretive key, instructing the reader to see beyond the literal historical narrative to understand the profound spiritual truths about the covenants of law and promise. It demonstrates how scripture uses historical accounts to teach foundational doctrines concerning slavery to the law and freedom in Christ.
TRV