Monogenes: 'only begotten' or 'one of a kind'?

This article examines the translation of the Greek word monogenes, traditionally rendered ‘only begotten’ in the Authorised (King James) Version but increasingly translated as ‘one of a kind’ or ‘unique’ in modern versions. Through careful analysis of the word’s etymology and usage in the New Testament, it is concluded that the concept of ‘begetting’ properly belongs to monogenes. As demonstrated, the evidence shows that ‘only begotten’ better fits every Scriptural context where the word appears. The retention of ‘only begotten’ in the Authorised Version is shown to preserve the historic and Scriptural doctrine of the Trinity, specifically that the Son is of the same substance (homoousios) as the Father.

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