### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **adelphḗ**, represented by `{{G79}}`, is the feminine term for **sister**. It appears 24 times across 24 unique verses in the Bible. As the feminine of ἀδελφός, it refers to a **sister**, either naturally in a biological family or ecclesiastically as a fellow believer in the faith.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G79}}` is used in several key contexts. It denotes a literal, familial relationship, as seen in the account of Martha and her **sister**, Mary ([[John 11:1]], [[Luke 10:39]]). The term is also used when referring to the biological sisters of Jesus ([[Mark 6:3]], [[Matthew 13:56]]). The concept is expanded to an ecclesiastical or spiritual sense, where fellow believers are considered family. For example, Paul commends "Phebe our **sister**" to the church in Rome [[Romans 16:1]], and instructs that younger women in the church be treated as **sisters** with all purity [[1 Timothy 5:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the familial context in which **adelphḗ** is found:
* `{{G80}}` **adelphós** (a brother): As the direct male counterpart, this word is often used alongside **adelphḗ** to encompass both male and female siblings, whether in a natural family or within the church ([[James 2:15]], [[1 Corinthians 7:15]]).
* `{{G3384}}` **mḗtēr** (a "mother"): This term for a female parent is frequently listed with **sister** and brother, particularly when Jesus redefines His family as those who do the will of God ([[Matthew 12:50]], [[Mark 3:35]]).
* `{{G3962}}` **patḗr** (a "father"): The word for a male parent, used to define the earthly family ties that must be secondary to one's commitment to Christ [[Luke 14:26]].
* `{{G1135}}` **gynḗ** (a woman; specially, a wife): This term for a woman or wife is listed with **sister** both in the context of family relationships one might leave for the gospel [[Matthew 19:29]] and in the context of a believing wife, described as "a sister, a wife" [[1 Corinthians 9:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G79}}` is significant in defining the nature of the Christian community.
* **The New Spiritual Family:** The term is central to Jesus's redefinition of kinship. He states that whoever does God's will is His "brother, and my **sister**, and mother," shifting primary identity from blood relations to shared spiritual obedience ([[Mark 3:35]], [[Matthew 12:50]]).
* **The Cost of Discipleship:** The relationship with a **sister** is presented as one of the most intimate earthly ties. Its inclusion in lists of what one may have to forsake for Christ highlights the radical commitment required of a disciple ([[Luke 14:26]], [[Matthew 19:29]]).
* **Ecclesiastical Unity and Care:** By addressing fellow believers like Phebe as a **sister** [[Romans 16:1]] or referring to an "elect **sister**" [[2 John 1:13]], the writers of the New Testament frame the church as a new family. This implies a relationship of mutual support, love, and responsibility [[James 2:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G79}}` **adelphḗ** is far more than a simple familial label. It is a vital term that illustrates the New Testament's emphasis on the spiritual family of God. Whether referring to a literal relative like Martha [[John 11:39]] or a respected member of the church [[Romans 16:1]], the word redefines relationships based on a shared faith in and obedience to God. It encapsulates both the deep personal cost of discipleship and the profound blessing of belonging to the household of faith.
TRV