### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **amḗtōr**, represented by `{{G282}}`, means **motherless** or of unknown maternity. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its definition comes from the combination of a negative particle and the word for mother, highlighting an absence of known maternal origin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single occurrence of `{{G282}}` is found in [[Hebrews 7:3]]. In this verse, a figure is described as being "without father, **without mother**, without descent." This phrasing is used to establish a unique kind of priesthood that is not dependent on a recorded genealogy. The context shows that being **without mother** contributes to a description of someone "made like unto the Son of God" who serves as a priest continually.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words appear alongside `{{G282}}` in [[Hebrews 7:3]], providing a fuller picture of its meaning:
* `{{G540}}` **apátōr** (without father): Defined as "fatherless, i.e. of unrecorded paternity," this word is the direct counterpart to **amḗtōr** and is used with it to emphasize a complete lack of recorded parentage.
* `{{G35}}` **agenealógētos** (without descent): This term means "unregistered as to birth" and reinforces the idea that the individual's family line is unknown, a key element of the description in [[Hebrews 7:3]].
* `{{G746}}` **archḗ** (beginning): This word, used in the phrase "beginning of days," signifies a commencement. Its absence in this context points to a quality of timelessness.
* `{{G2222}}` **zōḗ** (life): Meaning "life," this word is used in the phrase "end of life" to further illustrate the perpetual nature of the figure being described [[Hebrews 7:3]].
* `{{G5056}}` **télos** (end): As the "conclusion of an act or state," its absence suggests a state that does not terminate.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G282}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful application.
* **A Non-Genealogical Priesthood:** The term is essential in establishing a priesthood that exists outside of familial succession. By being **without mother** and father, the figure’s authority is not based on earthly lineage.
* **A Picture of Perpetuity:** Being **without mother** is part of a larger list of characteristics, including having neither "beginning of days, nor end of life" [[Hebrews 7:3]], to illustrate a continuous and unending status.
* **Likeness to the Son of God:** The ultimate purpose of the term is to contribute to a description of a person who is "made like unto the Son of God" [[Hebrews 7:3]], setting the stage for a higher, eternal priesthood.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G282}}` is a highly specific term whose entire biblical meaning is focused on the description found in [[Hebrews 7:3]]. It is not used to denote being an orphan, but rather to signify an unrecorded maternity. This absence is theologically significant, contributing to the portrait of a timeless priest "made like unto the Son of God," thereby showing how a lack of earthly record can point to a higher, spiritual reality.
TRV