ἄρα (ara)
ara
therefore
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 50 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek particle ara functions as a marker of inference, signaling that a conclusion is being drawn from preceding information. While often translated simply as "therefore" or "then," it carries a subjective nuance, reflecting the speaker’s internal reasoning process rather than just an objective logical sequence. This distinguishes it from other connectors like oun, which tends to indicate a more formal or necessary consequence.
Its usage is highly flexible, appearing frequently in questions to express surprise or inquiry, such as when Peter asks about the implications of the Spirit falling on Gentiles in Acts 10:47. It also strengthens statements when combined with other particles, as seen in Romans 8:32 where Paul argues that if God did not withhold His own Son, He will surely give all things.
Translators often render ara as "then" or "so then," particularly in the letters of Paul, to capture its role in guiding the reader through complex theological arguments. Its presence helps clarify the logical flow of a passage, ensuring that the connection between premise and conclusion is understood as a deliberate step in reasoning.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word ara guides us from observation to understanding. It marks the moment when facts meet faith, helping readers see how a conclusion follows naturally from what came before. In Paul’s letters and the Gospels, this particle does not merely link sentences; it invites you into the reasoning process of the author.
When you encounter ara in Scripture, pause to notice the connection. It reminds us that our beliefs are not random guesses but grounded responses to God’s actions. Whether drawing a moral lesson or affirming a theological truth, this word helps clarify the path from premise to conclusion.
This careful reasoning encourages a steady faith. Instead of jumping to conclusions, we learn to follow the logic of grace. It offers clarity in complex passages, ensuring that the weight of God’s promises is understood as a deliberate and trustworthy step in His plan for us.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 50 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- then20×
- So13×
- Then5×
- therefore3×
- perhaps2×
- then would1×
- then [of]1×
- so1×
- indeed1×
- Then indeed1×
- So then1×
- In that case1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἄρα43×
- Ἄρα7×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 7:20
Therefore by their fruits you will know them.
This occurrence draws a practical moral conclusion from the metaphor of trees, showing how character is revealed through actions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ara mean in the New Testament?
How is ara different from oun?
Where does ara appear most frequently?
Every Occurrence (50 verses across 12 books)
Matthew 7 verses
Therefore by their fruits you will know them.
Matthew 12:28But if I by the Spirit of God cast out demons, then God’s Kingdom has come upon you.
Matthew 17:26Peter said to him, “From strangers.” Jesus said to him, “Therefore the children are exempt.
Matthew 18:1In that hour the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who then is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?”
Matthew 19:25When the disciples heard it, they were exceedingly astonished, saying, “Who then can be saved?”
Matthew 19:27Then Peter answered, “Behold, we have left everything and followed you. What then will we have?”
Matthew 24:45“Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his lord has set over his household, to give them their food in due…