Alien
Culture & SocietyWhat is the meaning of Alien in the Bible?
The term 'alien' refers to a foreigner or non-member, encompassing meanings such as foreign, non-relative, different, or strange. In the Old Testament, it literally identified individuals who were not Israelites, while in the New Testament, it often carries a figurative sense referring to those outside the covenant community or spiritual fellowship.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing the dual usage of this term helps readers navigate the historical ethnic boundaries of ancient Israel and understand the theological shift in early Christianity toward a broader, spiritually defined community that includes both Jews and Gentiles.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Alien in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Alien clarify?
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Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.