The meaning of “ἀλήθεια”
Understanding alḗtheia reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
true, X truly, truth, verity.
ἀλήθεια
true, X truly, truth, verity.
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 22:16 | “And they sent out unto him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any man: for thou regardest not the person of men.” Word: ἀλήθεια (alḗtheia) | |
| Acts 10:34 | “Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:” Word: ἀλήθεια (alḗtheia) | |
| Galatians 3:1 | “O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?” Word: ἀλήθεια (alḗtheia) | |
| 2 Thessalonians 2:12 | “That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” Word: ἀλήθεια (alḗtheia) | |
| Hebrews 10:26 | “For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,” Word: ἀλήθεια (alḗtheia) |
Usage Statistics
Theological Word Study: Truth
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Truth, faithfulness
The Hebrew emet (אֱמֶת) means truth or faithfulness—reliability and conformity to reality. God is true (emet), utterly faithful to His word and character.
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Truth, reality
The Greek aletheia (ἀλήθεια) denotes truth or reality—that which corresponds to actuality. Jesus declared, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life' (John 14:6), embodying ultimate reality.