ἀδελφός: the problem of the ancient: " y'all "

Feb 26

adelphos (ad-el-fos'): brethren, brother, brothers

This week’s Greek word is adelphos, meaning "brothers". This word comes up frequently in the New Testament as a word to refer to all believers; both men and women. The problem that translators debate on whether to translate it word-for-word and have it literally say "brothers" (possibly being understood as a command that excludes women) or "brothers and sisters" (adding to the text 'sisters' so that it is rightly understood to include women).

I think most of us love the idea of translating scripture word for word but don't realize sometimes translating a text literally by the words used misses the meaning (like in idioms!). In yesterday's podcast we talk all about the misunderstandings around translation, how to read the Bible and understand more, etc! This podcast with Tim Wildsmith is one you don't want to miss!

🎧 Listen to the latest episode here!

Scriptures where we find "adelphos":