The Greek word ἀπείθεια (apeitheia) means “disobedience” or “unbelief.” It combines the prefix ἀ- (a-) meaning “without” and πείθω (peithō) meaning “to persuade” or “to obey.” Thus, ἀπείθεια refers to a state of not being persuaded or not obeying, often in a context of resisting divine or authoritative commands.
Detailed Overview
- Strong’s Concordance: Strong’s defines ἀπείθεια as “disobedience” or “unbelief,” noting that it refers to a refusal to obey or be persuaded. This term is used to describe a lack of compliance or adherence, particularly in religious or moral contexts.
- Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon: BDAG provides a more detailed explanation, defining ἀπείθεια as “disobedience” or “rejection of authority.” It notes that this term can refer to a general lack of compliance or a specific refusal to obey divine instructions. BDAG emphasizes its usage in contexts where authority or commands are resisted.
- Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon: LSJ defines ἀπείθεια as “disobedience” or “unbelief,” highlighting its use in describing a state of not following instructions or commands. The lexicon focuses on its application in both general and specific contexts of resistance.
- Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon: Thayer’s lexicon describes ἀπείθεια as “disobedience” or “unbelief,” and emphasizes its meaning as a refusal to comply with or be persuaded by authority. It also notes its use in the New Testament to describe rejection of divine commands or the gospel.
In summary, ἀπείθεια (apeitheia) refers to “disobedience” or “unbelief,” indicating a state of non-compliance or resistance to authority. Strong’s Concordance, BDAG, LSJ, and Thayer’s all concur in defining this term as related to disobedience and resistance, particularly in religious or moral contexts.
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