### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **adelphós**, represented by `{{G80}}`, is the primary term for **brother**. It appears 346 times across 319 unique verses, highlighting its importance in scripture. Derived from words meaning "a connective particle" and "the womb," its core meaning is "from the same womb." Beyond its literal use for a male sibling, the term is used figuratively to refer to a fellow believer, a kinsman, or anyone sharing a common bond.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G80}}` is used in several key contexts. It denotes literal family ties, often listed with **father** `{{G3962}}`, **mother** `{{G3384}}`, and **sister** `{{G79}}` [[Matthew 19:29]]. It is most frequently used as a term of address for fellow believers within the church, as seen in phrases like "my beloved **brethren**" [[1 Corinthians 15:58]]. Jesus redefines the term spiritually, stating that whoever does the will of His Father is His **brother** [[Matthew 12:50]]. After His resurrection, He refers to His disciples as "my **brethren**," solidifying their new spiritual relationship with Him and the Father [[John 20:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the theme of familial and spiritual kinship:
* `{{G79}}` **adelphḗ** (a sister): The direct female counterpart to **adelphós**, it is often used in parallel to describe the full scope of the spiritual family in Christ [[Matthew 12:50]].
* `{{G3962}}` **patḗr** (a father): This word establishes the source of the brotherly relationship. The concept of spiritual brotherhood is rooted in having God as a common **Father** [[John 20:17]].
* `{{G5207}}` **huiós** (a son): The relationship between believers as **brethren** is understood through their shared status as children of God, conformed to the image of His **Son**, Jesus Christ [[Romans 8:29]].
* `{{G4889}}` **sýndoulos** (a fellowservant): This term describes a shared relationship of service to the same master and is used by the angel in Revelation to describe his relationship with John and his **brethren** [[Revelation 19:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G80}}` is immense, defining the nature and ethics of the Christian community.
* **A New Spiritual Family:** The term is foundational to the New Testament understanding of the church. Believers are called "holy **brethren**" [[Hebrews 3:1]], establishing an identity that transcends biological or ethnic lines, united by faith in Christ.
* **Christ as the Preeminent Brother:** Jesus is identified as the "firstborn among many **brethren**" [[Romans 8:29]]. This positions Him as the head of a new spiritual family, and believers as those conformed to His image.
* **Mutual Love and Responsibility:** The title carries a strong ethical imperative. Believers are commanded to love their **brother** [[1 John 4:21]], restore a **brother** who sins [[Galatians 6:1]], avoid causing divisions [[1 Corinthians 1:10]], and forgive one another from the heart [[Matthew 18:35]]. Love for the **brethren** serves as evidence of having passed from death to life [[1 John 3:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G80}}` is far more than a simple familial label. It is a cornerstone of New Testament ecclesiology, defining the very essence of the church as a spiritual family united under God the Father. The word illustrates a profound theological shift from physical lineage to a spiritual kinship based on a shared relationship with Christ, the firstborn **brother**, and it outlines the loving responsibilities that believers have toward one another.
TRV