### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **alṓpēx**, represented by `{{G258}}`, literally means a **fox**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. While its literal meaning is straightforward, it is also used figuratively to describe a cunning person.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word **alṓpēx** appears in two key contexts in the Gospels. In [[Matthew 8:20]] and its parallel account in [[Luke 9:58]], Jesus uses the term literally to contrast the security of animals with his own itinerant ministry, stating, "The **foxes** have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head." In a separate instance, the word is used figuratively. In [[Luke 13:32]], Jesus, referring to Herod, instructs his followers, "Go ye, and tell that **fox**, Behold, I cast out devils, and I do cures to day and to morrow, and the third day I shall be perfected."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify the context in which `{{G258}}` is used:
* `{{G5454}}` **phōleós** (hole): This word, meaning "a burrow or lurking-place," is the dwelling place of the **foxes** mentioned in [[Matthew 8:20]] and [[Luke 9:58]].
* `{{G2682}}` **kataskḗnōsis** (nest): Defined as "an encamping, i.e. (figuratively) a perch," this word is used in parallel with **phōleós** to describe the homes of birds, further highlighting the Son of Man's lack of a place to rest ([[Matthew 8:20]], [[Luke 9:58]]).
* `{{G5207}}` **huiós** (son): Meaning a "son," this word is central to the title "Son of man," the figure who is contrasted with the **foxes** that have a home.
* `{{G2776}}` **kephalḗ** (head): This word for "head" is used to complete the poignant image of Christ's homelessness, as the Son of Man has no place to lay his **head** ([[Matthew 8:20]], [[Luke 9:58]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G258}}` is primarily illustrative and figurative.
* **Symbol of Cunning and Deceit:** The primary figurative use of **fox** is to describe a cunning and sly individual, as seen in Jesus' reference to Herod in [[Luke 13:32]].
* **A Measure of Worldly Security:** In its literal sense, the **fox** with its hole represents a baseline of security and belonging in the created order. These animals have a place of their own in the world.
* **Contrast with Christ's Mission:** The fact that **foxes** have homes serves to magnify the voluntary homelessness and detachment of the Son of Man from worldly comforts, emphasizing the sacrificial nature of His calling ([[Matthew 8:20]], [[Luke 9:58]]).
### Summary
In summary, **alṓpēx** `{{G258}}` is a term that, despite its infrequent use, carries significant weight. It functions both literally, to illustrate a point about the natural world, and figuratively, as a sharp descriptor of a cunning character. In both cases, its use in the Gospels serves to illuminate the unique and self-denying nature of Jesus Christ's life and ministry on earth.
TRV