ἄμεμπτος (amemptos) is a Greek adjective that means “blameless” or “without reproach.” It describes a state of being free from fault, faultless, or deserving of no criticism. The term is used to indicate moral or ethical integrity.
Possible Meanings:
- Blameless: Without fault or error; beyond reproach.
- Without Reproach: Free from criticism or accusation.
Detailed Overview with Concordances
1. BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature):
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- BDAG defines ἄμεμπτος as “blameless” or “without reproach.” It notes that the term is used in the New Testament to describe individuals who are morally upright and free from blame. The lexicon provides examples from the pastoral epistles where this term characterizes the ideal qualities of church leaders.
2. LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones Greek-English Lexicon):
- LSJ describes ἄμεμπτος as “blameless” or “irreproachable.” It highlights the term’s use in classical and biblical texts to denote a person who is faultless or incapable of being criticized. The lexicon emphasizes its application in ethical and moral contexts.
3. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:
- Thayer defines ἄμεμπτος as “blameless” or “unaccused.” It explains that the term is used in the New Testament to describe individuals who are morally exemplary and free from any charges of wrongdoing. Thayer provides examples of its use in passages that describe the qualifications for church leaders.
4. Strong’s Concordance:
- Strong’s Concordance lists ἄμεμπτος as “blameless” or “without reproach.” It notes that the term is used in biblical texts to indicate someone who is free from blame and has a reputation for moral integrity. The concordance highlights its use in passages discussing the character of church leaders.
Summary:
ἄμεμπτος means “blameless” or “without reproach,” signifying a state of being free from fault and deserving no criticism. According to BDAG, LSJ, Thayer’s Lexicon, and Strong’s Concordance, the term is used in classical and biblical Greek to describe moral and ethical integrity, particularly in the context of qualifications for leadership and personal conduct. It underscores the importance of a faultless character in various roles and situations.
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