G230 — alēthōs (truly, indeed, certainly)

G230 · Greek · New Testament

ἀληθῶς

alēthōs

Adverb

truly, indeed, certainly

Definition

Alēthōs (G230) is the adverb from alētheia (truth). It affirms that something is really and truly the case. In the Gospels, it is used of astonished affirmations: 'Truly this is the Son of God' (Matthew 27:54), 'Truly this man was righteous' (Luke 23:47). It is also used in questions testing authenticity: 'Are you truly the Christ?'

Usage & Theological Significance

Each NT use of alēthōs tends to be a moment of recognition — usually about Jesus' identity. The word carries epistemic weight: not just 'probably' but 'genuinely, in reality.' The centurion's confession at the cross (alēthōs — 'truly this was the Son of God') is the climactic use in Matthew. The resurrection appearances confirm what was said alēthōs.

Key Bible Verses

Matthew 27:54 When the centurion and those who were with him, keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were filled with awe and said, 'Truly [alēthōs] this was the Son of God!'

John 6:14 When the people saw the sign that he had done, they said, 'This is indeed [alēthōs] the Prophet who is to come into the world!'

John 7:40 When they heard these words, some of the people said, 'This really [alēthōs] is the Prophet.'

Acts 12:11 When Peter came to himself, he said, 'Now I am sure that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me... I know for certain [alēthōs].'

1 Thessalonians 2:13 And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is [alēthōs], the word of God.

Related Words

External Resources

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