The Greek word allogenḗs, represented by G241, is defined as foreign, i.e. not a Jew:--stranger. This term is derived from ἄλλος and γένος. It is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, making its single usage highly significant.
The sole appearance of G241 is in the account of the ten lepers. After they are healed, only one returns to express gratitude. This event is captured in the statement, "There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger" Luke 17:18. Here, the word is used to emphasize that the only individual who came back to give thanks was considered a foreigner, creating a stark contrast with the other nine who did not.
Several related words from its context help illuminate the meaning of this passage:
- G2147 heurískō: This is defined as a prolonged form of a primary , which (together with another cognate form) is used for it in all the tenses except the present and imperfect; to find (literally or figuratively). It is used to state that no others were found who returned Luke 17:18, and elsewhere promises that those who seek will find Matthew 7:7.
- G5290 hypostréphō: Meaning to turn under (behind), i.e. to return (literally or figuratively). This describes the key action of the stranger who returned to give glory Luke 17:18. It is also used to describe Jesus as he returned from the Jordan Luke 4:1.
- G1325 dídōmi: This means to give, used in a very wide application. The stranger returned to give glory to God Luke 17:18. This same word describes God's ultimate act of love when he gave his only begotten Son John 3:16.
- G1391 dóxa: Meaning glory (as very apparent), in a wide application. This is what the stranger gave to God Luke 17:18. It is used to describe the glory of the only begotten of the Father John 1:14 and the hope of glory in believers Colossians 1:27.
The theological weight of G241 is concentrated in its single, impactful use.
- A Portrait of Gratitude: The word is exclusively used to identify the one leper who returned G5290 to express thanks. His status as a stranger makes his gratitude the focal point of the narrative.
- Acknowledging the Source: The action prompted by the healing was to give G1325 glory G1391 to God G2316, demonstrating a recognition of the divine source of the miracle.
- The Outsider's Faith: The use of save G1508 before "this stranger" G3778 sets the foreigner's actions apart from the others, presenting an example where an outsider displays the proper response that was not found G2147 among the insiders.
In summary, G241 allogenḗs is a term whose biblical meaning is defined entirely by one event. It is not just a label for a foreigner but a key element in a story contrasting grateful faith with ingratitude. Its singular use in Luke 17:18 serves as a powerful reminder that a response of thankfulness to God can come from the most unexpected places, marking the stranger as an exemplar of faith.
TRV