ἀδελφή

a sister

Definition

The Greek word ἀδελφή primarily means 'sister,' referring to a female sibling, as seen in references to Jesus's sisters (Matthew 13:56, Mark 6:3). In the New Testament, it is also used metaphorically to describe a fellow female believer within the Christian community, emphasizing spiritual kinship (Romans 16:1, 1 Corinthians 7:15). This familial language extends the concept of brotherhood (ἀδελφός) to include all members of the church, reflecting the new relational bonds formed in Christ.

Biblical Usage

Ἀδελφή is used 23 times in the New Testament, appearing in the Gospels, Acts, and Epistles. In the Gospels, it often denotes biological sisters (e.g., Martha and Mary in Luke 10:39-40). In epistolary literature, such as Romans and 1 Corinthians, it consistently refers to Christian women within the church family (e.g., Romans 16:1, 1 Corinthians 9:5). Jesus uses the term to define his spiritual family, stating that whoever does God's will is his sister (Mark 3:35).

Etymology

Derived from ἀ- (a-, implying 'same' or 'from the same') and δελφύς (delphys, meaning 'womb'). Thus, ἀδελφή literally means 'from the same womb,' indicating a shared biological origin. This root underscores the deep, inherent connection implied by the term, which was naturally extended in the New Testament to describe spiritual kinship among believers.

Semantic Range

The term ἀδελφή is theologically significant as it illustrates the inclusive nature of the Christian community. By applying familial language to believers, the New Testament emphasizes that faith in Christ creates a new family that transcends biological ties (Mark 3:35). This reinforces doctrines of unity, equality, and mutual care within the body of Christ, enriching our understanding of the church as a spiritual household where all are siblings in God's family.

In the first-century Greco-Roman world, family bonds were central to social identity and responsibility. The term 'sister' carried strong connotations of loyalty, protection, and shared lineage. By using this language for fellow believers, the early church subverted traditional familial boundaries, creating a new social unit based on faith. This was radical in a culture where kinship was typically limited to blood relations or ethnic groups.

συγγενής (syngenēs, G4773) — a relative or kinsman, emphasizing broader family connection rather than direct siblinghood. ἀδελφός (adelphos, G80) — the masculine counterpart, meaning 'brother,' used similarly for biological and spiritual brothers.

Word Details

Scripture References