μονογενής (monogenēs)
monogenēs
unique
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 9 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word monogenēs describes someone who is "unique" or "of a single kind." While often translated as "only begotten," its core meaning emphasizes singularity rather than the act of birth. It appears in the New Testament to describe children who are the only offspring of their parents, such as the boy raised from the dead in Luke 7:12 or Jairus’s daughter in Luke 8:42.
In reference to Jesus, the term carries profound theological weight. John uses it to identify Christ as the unique Son of God (John 3:16; 1 John 4:9). The phrase "only begotten God" in John 1:18 further underscores this exclusive relationship with the Father. Unlike human sons who share a common nature, Jesus is presented as the one-of-a-kind revelation of God.
The word combines roots meaning "single" and "kind" or "race." This etymology highlights that Jesus is not merely an adopted son but belongs to a distinct category entirely. Translators sometimes choose "unique Son" to avoid misunderstandings about biological generation, capturing the sense that He stands alone in His divine identity.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word monogenēs points to something entirely one of a kind. It does not simply mean 'only' in terms of being the sole child, but rather 'unique in kind.' When we read that God gave His monogenēs Son, we are hearing about a relationship that has no parallel in human experience. Jesus is not just another son; He shares the very nature of the Father.
This truth anchors our hope. Because He is unique, His sacrifice and love carry infinite weight. We do not need to strive for a status we cannot earn. Instead, we rest in the fact that God’s love was demonstrated through this singular gift. It is a reminder that we are known by the One who stands alone as the perfect revelation of God.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 9 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- only begotten4×
- one and only1×
- of an only begotten1×
- an only child1×
- an only1×
- [his] only begotten [son]1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μονογενῆ3×
- μονογενὴς3×
- μονογενοῦς2×
- μονογενής1×
Key Verses
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John 3:16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only born Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
This verse links the giving of the unique Son directly to the gift of eternal life, showing that His singularity is the basis for our salvation.
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John 1:14
The Word became flesh and lived among us. We saw his glory, such glory as of the only born Son of the Father, full of grace and truth.
Here the term describes Jesus’ glory as fully reflecting the Father, emphasizing His divine identity rather than just familial status.
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Luke 7:12
Now when he came near to the gate of the city, behold, one who was dead was carried out, the only born son of his mother, and she was a widow. Many people of the city were with her.
This occurrence shows the word’s broader use for a mother’s only child, highlighting the depth of human grief that Jesus addresses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does monogenēs mean in the Bible?
Is monogenēs used for human children?
Why is this word important for Christian faith?
Every Occurrence (9 verses across 4 books)
Luke 3 verses
Now when he came near to the gate of the city, behold, one who was dead was carried out, the only born son of his…
Luke 8:42for he had an only born daughter, about twelve years of age, and she was dying. But as he went, the multitudes pressed…
Luke 9:38Behold, a man from the crowd called out, saying, “Teacher, I beg you to look at my son, for he is my only born child.