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G817 · Greek · New Testament
ἄτερ
Ater
Preposition
Without, apart from

Definition

The Greek preposition ater means without or apart from — expressing absence or separation. It appears in Luke 22:6 (Judas watched for a moment 'without a crowd' to betray Jesus) and Luke 22:35 (Jesus asking disciples about their earlier mission when He sent them 'without purse, bag or sandals').

Usage & Theological Significance

The two uses of ater in Luke 22 form a profound contrast. Judas sought a moment ater ochlos — without the crowd — to betray Jesus in secret. Meanwhile, Jesus reminds the disciples how they lacked nothing when sent out ater material provision. One 'without' describes betrayal in darkness; the other describes miraculous divine provision in obedience. The contrast illuminates the whole of Luke 22: through faithlessness and betrayal, God provides salvation — the ultimate 'without' being that Christ died for us without our deserving it.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 22:6 He watched for an opportunity to hand Jesus over when no crowd was present (ater).
Luke 22:35 Jesus asked, 'When I sent you without (ater) purse, bag or sandals, did you lack anything?' 'Nothing,' they answered.
John 15:5 Apart from me you can do nothing.
Romans 8:35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?
Hebrews 11:40 God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect.

Related Words

External Resources

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