ἑταῖρος (hetairos)
hetairos
friend
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun hetairos refers to a companion or comrade, highlighting a bond of shared experience rather than mere acquaintance. In the New Testament, it appears only three times, all within the Gospel of Matthew. The word carries a sense of partnership, often used in direct address to acknowledge someone’s presence and status in a specific moment.
Its usage is particularly striking in how Jesus employs it. In Matthew 20:13 and 22:12, the employer calls the worker "my friend" during a confrontation about wages and wedding attire. Similarly, in Matthew 26:50, Judas uses the term to identify Jesus before the arrest. These instances show that hetairos can denote a familiar relationship even when tension or betrayal is present.
The word’s root suggests a connection through shared life or clan, distinguishing it from more general terms for friend. Translators typically render it simply as "friend," though this may soften the nuance of active companionship inherent in the Greek. The term underscores the reality that proximity does not always guarantee loyalty.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word hetairos describes a companion bound by shared experience, not just casual acquaintance. When Jesus or others use this term, it acknowledges a real connection, even in moments of tension. It reminds us that relationships carry weight and history, whether they bring comfort or challenge.
In Matthew 20:13, the employer calls the worker “friend” while addressing a dispute over wages. This shows that hetairos can bridge conflict without erasing it. Similarly, in Matthew 26:50, Judas uses the word as he betrays Jesus, highlighting how proximity does not ensure loyalty. These verses invite reflection on the depth and fragility of human bonds.
For your faith life, this word encourages honesty in relationships. It asks us to value companionship while remaining aware of its complexities. Whether in joy or trial, hetairos points to the reality that we are called to walk with others, trusting God to guide our connections.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Friend,3×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἑταῖρε,3×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 20:13
“But he answered one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Didn’t you agree with me for a denarius?
The employer uses hetairos to acknowledge the worker’s presence while defending his fairness, showing the word bridges conflict without denying tension.
-
Matthew 22:12
and he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you come in here not wearing wedding clothing?’ He was speechless.
The king calls the guest “friend” despite the man’s improper attire, highlighting how hetairos can denote a recognized relationship even when boundaries are crossed.
-
Matthew 26:50
Jesus said to him, “Friend, why are you here?” Then they came and laid hands on Jesus, and took him.
Judas uses hetairos to identify Jesus before arresting him, revealing how the word marks intimate companionship that can be turned against its own bond.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does hetairos mean in the New Testament?
How is hetairos different from other Greek words for friend?
Why does Jesus use hetairos in Matthew 26:50?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
Matthew 3 verses
“But he answered one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Didn’t you agree with me for a denarius?
Matthew 22:12and he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you come in here not wearing wedding clothing?’ He was speechless.
Matthew 26:50Jesus said to him, “Friend, why are you here?” Then they came and laid hands on Jesus, and took him.