### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **adelphótēs**, represented by `{{G81}}`, defines the concept of **brotherhood** or the Christian fraternity. Derived from the word for brother, `{{G80}}`, it emphasizes the feeling of brotherliness. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, making its usage both specific and significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical applications, `{{G81}}` is used to describe the collective body of believers and the relationship they share. It is presented as an object of active love, a core command given alongside honoring all people and fearing God [[1 Peter 2:17]]. It also frames the context for shared suffering, reminding believers that the afflictions they face are the same trials being experienced by their **brethren** throughout the world [[1 Peter 5:9]]. This establishes the brotherhood as a community unified in both duty and trial.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a deeper understanding of the context surrounding the brotherhood:
* `{{G80}}` **adelphós** (brother): The root word for brotherhood, it refers to a literal or figurative brother. This familial term is expanded to the whole community of faith, with Christ being the "firstborn among many **brethren**" [[Romans 8:29]].
* `{{G25}}` **agapáō** (to love): This is the specific action commanded toward the brotherhood [[1 Peter 2:17]]. It signifies a moral love and is a defining characteristic of the believer's life, as believers are called to **love** one another [[John 13:34]].
* `{{G3804}}` **páthēma** (suffering, affliction): This word is directly linked to the shared experience of the brotherhood. Believers are encouraged by knowing that the same **afflictions** are being accomplished in their fellow Christians [[1 Peter 5:9]].
* `{{G436}}` **anthístēmi** (to resist, oppose): This is the proper response to the source of affliction, which is to be done with stedfast faith in the context of the universal suffering of the brotherhood [[1 Peter 5:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G81}}` is significant despite its infrequent use.
* **Unity in Suffering:** The concept establishes a profound connection among believers based on a shared experience of hardship in the world. The afflictions faced by one are common to the entire fraternity [[1 Peter 5:9]].
* **An Obligation of Love:** Loving the **brotherhood** is not merely a suggestion but a divine command, placed on the same level as fearing God and honoring the king. This elevates the fellowship from a simple association to a primary Christian duty [[1 Peter 2:17]].
* **A Global Identity:** The use of `{{G81}}` in the context of afflictions "in the world" points to a global, not just local, identity. It unites all believers everywhere into a single fraternity, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G81}}` **adelphótēs** encapsulates the essence of the Christian community. It is far more than a simple term for a group of people; it signifies a fraternity bound by a mutual command to love and a common experience of suffering. Its two appearances in scripture serve as powerful reminders of the believer's identity within and responsibility to the worldwide body of Christ.
TRV