Lexical Summary alópéx: Fox Original Word: ἀλώπηξ Strong's Exhaustive Concordance fox. Of uncertain derivation; a fox, i.e. (figuratively) a cunning person -- fox. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originof uncertain origin Definition a fox NASB Translation fox (1), foxes (2). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 258: ἀλώπηξἀλώπηξ, (εκος, ἡ, a fox: Matthew 8:20; Luke 9:58. Metaphorically, a sly and crafty man: Luke 13:32; (in the same sense often in the Greek writings, as Solon in Plutarch, Sol. 30, 2; Pindar Pythagoras 2, 141; Plutarch, Sulla 28, 5). Topical Lexicon Lexical Scope and Core Meaning ἀλώπηξ (Strong’s Greek 258) denotes “fox,” the familiar small canid known for stealth and craftiness. The term appears three times in the Greek New Testament, all on the lips of Jesus Christ. While the lexical sense is straightforward, the contexts elevate the creature into a theological and pastoral illustration. Old Testament Background Though the Septuagint uses other words for foxes, the animal already carried symbolic weight in Hebrew Scripture. Judges 15:4–5 records Samson’s incendiary use of three hundred foxes; Nehemiah 4:3 mocks Judah’s wall by saying that “if a fox goes up on it he will break it down”; Song of Solomon 2:15 calls for the capture of “the little foxes that ruin the vineyards.” Foxes thus evoked images of destructive cunning and fragile defenses long before the New Testament era. First-Century Palestinian Context Foxes were common in Judea and the Galilee, scavenging among ruins and fields. Their dens dotted the hillsides, making them a ready reference point when Jesus addressed itinerant disciples and opponents alike. Their elusive nature fit well with themes of homelessness, disguise, and political calculation. Jesus’ Use of ἀλώπηξ 1. Cost of Discipleship (Matthew 8:20; Luke 9:58) “Foxes have dens and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay His head” (Luke 9:58). 2. Rebuke of Political Cunning (Luke 13:32) “Go tell that fox…”. Symbolic Themes • Cunning versus Integrity Fox imagery exposes false security and manipulative leadership, contrasting sharply with the transparency and truth of Christ’s kingdom. • Temporary Shelter versus Eternal Home Dens symbolize fleeting comfort; Jesus leads disciples toward a permanent dwelling with the Father (John 14:2–3). • Judgment on Empty Religion In rabbinic literature, foxes wandering among temple ruins signified divine judgment. Jesus’ warnings against hypocritical leaders echo this motif (Matthew 23). Theological Implications 1. Christological Humility The Creator of “all things” (John 1:3) accepts a status beneath that of foxes, highlighting the depth of the incarnation (Philippians 2:6–8). 2. Sovereignty over Earthly Powers By calling Herod “that fox,” Jesus asserts dominion over rulers whose authority is permitted, not ultimate (John 19:11). 3. Discipleship Paradigm Kingdom allegiance may cost earthly securities. Yet believers gain “an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading” (1 Peter 1:4). Historical Reception Early Church fathers such as Tertullian and Cyril of Alexandria echoed the fox metaphor when denouncing heretical teachers. Medieval commentators connected Luke 13:32 to the Antichrist figure, interpreting “fox” as any ruler opposing the gospel. Reformers cited Matthew 8:20 to exhort ministers toward sacrificial service. Practical Ministry Applications • Mission Strategy Expect logistical challenges; rely on God’s provision rather than permanent infrastructure. • Leadership Discernment Assess political and ecclesiastical figures by their fruits, not their craftiness (Matthew 7:15–20). • Pastoral Counseling Encourage believers facing homelessness or instability by pointing to Christ’s identification with their plight. Related Figures of Speech • Wolves (Luke 10:3) – Dangerous predators Conclusion ἀλώπηξ serves as a vivid emblem of earthly cunning and transient security set against the steadfast purpose of God in Christ. Whether warning would-be disciples, confronting corrupt power, or exposing spiritual shallowness, the Lord’s fox imagery calls every generation to embrace the costly, yet victorious, path of the Son of Man. Forms and Transliterations αλώπεκας αλωπεκες αλώπεκες ἀλώπεκες αλωπεκι αλώπεκι ἀλώπεκι αλωπέκων αλώπηξ alopekes alōpekes alṓpekes alopeki alōpeki alṓpekiLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Matthew 8:20 N-NFPGRK: Ἰησοῦς Αἱ ἀλώπεκες φωλεοὺς ἔχουσιν NAS: said to him, The foxes have KJV: saith unto him, The foxes have holes, INT: Jesus foxes holes have Luke 9:58 N-NFP Luke 13:32 N-DFS Strong's Greek 258 |
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