Brief Overview of ἀπείραστος (Strong’s G551)

The Greek word ἀπείραστος (apeirastos) is derived from the prefix ἀ- (a-), meaning “not,” and πειράζω (peirazō), meaning “to test” or “to tempt.” Thus, ἀπείραστος means “not tested” or “not tempted.” It generally describes something or someone that is free from testing or temptation, often used in a moral or ethical context.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance: Strong’s defines ἀπείραστος as “untried” or “not tested,” highlighting its usage to denote someone or something that has not undergone testing or temptation. This definition underscores the absence of trial or temptation in a person or thing.
2. Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon: BDAG elaborates on ἀπείραστος by describing it as “untested” or “free from testing.” BDAG uses it to describe qualities or states where no trial or temptation has been experienced, emphasizing its use in moral or ethical discussions about purity or integrity.
3. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon: LSJ provides a definition consistent with Strong’s and BDAG, noting that ἀπείραστος means “untested” or “free from trial.” LSJ emphasizes its application in contexts where an individual or entity has not been subjected to testing or temptation, reflecting purity or lack of trial.
4. Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon: Thayer’s defines ἀπείραστος as “untried” or “untempted,” focusing on its meaning of being free from testing or temptation. Thayer’s highlights its use to describe states or conditions where an entity has not faced trials or temptations.

In summary, ἀπείραστος (apeirastos) means “untested” or “free from testing,” indicating a state of not having experienced trials or temptations. This definition is consistent across major Greek lexicons, including Strong’s Concordance, BDAG, LSJ, and Thayer’s, all of which emphasize its application in describing something or someone that has not been subjected to testing or temptation.