### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anḗr**, represented by `{{G435}}`, is a primary term for **a man**, specifically as an individual male. It appears **215 times** across **193 unique verses** in the Bible. While its core meaning is **man**, it is also frequently translated as **husband**, **fellow**, or **sir**, depending on the context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G435}}` is used to define roles, character, and relationships. It is the specific term for a **husband** in passages outlining family structure, such as the instruction for husbands to love their wives [[Ephesians 5:25]] and for wives to submit to their own husbands [[Ephesians 5:22]]. It is also used as a term of address, as when speakers address a crowd with "Men and brethren" [[Acts 1:16]] or "Men of Israel" [[Acts 2:22]]. The word describes individuals of specific character, such as the "wise **man**" who builds his house on the rock [[Matthew 7:24]] or David, "a **man** after mine own heart" [[Acts 13:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of humanity and relational roles:
* `{{G1135}}` **gynḗ** (a woman; specially, a wife): As the direct counterpart to `{{G435}}`, this word is essential for understanding the relationship between men and women, particularly in the context of marriage [[1 Corinthians 7:2]].
* `{{G444}}` **ánthrōpos** (man-faced, i.e. a human being): This term is used for humanity in a general sense, whereas `{{G435}}` refers specifically to a male. In [[Acts 14:15]], the apostles correct the crowd by saying "We also are men (**ánthrōpos**) of like passions," after being addressed as "Sirs (**anḗr**)."
* `{{G5207}}` **huiós** (a "son"): This word defines kinship and lineage. David is identified as the **son** of Jesse before being described as a **man** after God's own heart [[Acts 13:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G435}}` is significant, establishing principles of order, maturity, and responsibility.
* **Headship in Creation and the Church:** The term is central to the concept of spiritual order, stating that "the head of every **man** is Christ; and the head of the woman is the **man**;" [[1 Corinthians 11:3]]. This principle extends to the household, where the husband's role is compared to Christ's relationship with the church [[Ephesians 5:25]].
* **Representation of Spiritual Maturity:** Becoming a **man** is contrasted with the immaturity of a child, signifying spiritual growth [[1 Corinthians 13:11]]. Believers are called to grow "unto a perfect **man**, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ" [[Ephesians 4:13]].
* **Individual Responsibility and Agency:** `{{G435}}` denotes an individual accountable for his actions. The "blessed **man**" is the one who endures temptation [[James 1:12]], while the "double minded **man**" is unstable in all his ways [[James 1:8]]. Ultimately, God will judge the world through the **man** He has ordained, Jesus Christ [[Acts 17:31]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G435}}` **anḗr** is a specific and vital term in the New Testament. It moves beyond a simple gender label to define the distinct roles of a **man** and **husband** within the family, the church, and God's plan of redemption. It carries significant theological weight, illustrating concepts of headship, spiritual maturity, and individual accountability before God.
TRV