ἀλλά
but, except
Definition
ἀλλά is a strong adversative conjunction meaning 'but' or 'however,' used to introduce a contrast that corrects, replaces, or negates a preceding statement. It often signals a shift to what is true or primary, as in Jesus' correction, 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but (ἀλλά) by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God' (Matthew 4:4). In some contexts, it can carry the sense of 'except' or 'rather,' emphasizing an exclusive alternative, such as in the Lord's Prayer: 'lead us not into temptation, but (ἀλλά) deliver us from evil' (Matthew 6:13).
Biblical Usage
ἀλλά appears frequently throughout the New Testament, especially in the Gospels and Pauline epistles, to mark strong logical or rhetorical contrasts. It is common in Jesus' teachings to contrast human assumptions with divine truth (e.g., Matthew 5:17, 5:39) and in Paul's letters to correct misunderstandings or emphasize grace over law (e.g., Romans 6:14). Its usage often strengthens an argument by introducing a counterpoint that is more authoritative or corrective.
Etymology
Derived from the combination of the negative particle ἀ- (a-, meaning 'not') and the root *lla, related to the word ἄλλος (allos, 'other'). Historically, it developed from a phrase meaning 'on the other hand' or 'otherwise,' evolving into a strong adversative conjunction that sets one idea against another.
Semantic Range
ἀλλά is theologically significant as it frequently marks divine correction or the revelation of God's will in contrast to human thinking. It underscores themes of grace over law, faith over works, and spiritual truth over worldly wisdom. Understanding its force enriches reading by highlighting key contrasts in salvation teachings, such as the shift from condemnation to redemption in passages like Romans 3:20-22.
In ancient Greek rhetoric, ἀλλά was a common tool for constructing persuasive arguments by introducing strong oppositions, a practice adopted by New Testament writers to convey the transformative message of the Gospel against prevailing cultural or religious norms.
δὲ (de, G1161) — a weaker, more common contrastive particle, often translated 'but' or 'and,' used for simple continuation or mild contrast. ἀλλὰ is stronger and more corrective.
Word Details
How this works
Definitions are from the Dodson Greek-English Lexicon, a concise public-domain resource suitable for introductory word study. Brief glosses are supplemented by STEPBible TBESG data (CC BY 4.0). For advanced research, standard scholarly references include BDAG (Danker, 3rd ed.) and LSJ.
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