Brief Overview of ἄστοργος (G794: astorgos)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: astorgos

Root Words: The term ἄστοργος (astorgos) combines the prefix ἀ- (a-) meaning “without” or “lack of,” with στοργή (storgē), which refers to “affection” or “family love.”

Primary Meanings:

• Without Affection: Refers to a lack of natural affection, especially within family or close relationships.
• Heartless: Can describe someone who is unfeeling or lacking in tender feelings towards others.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG defines ἄστοργος as “without natural affection,” noting its use to describe individuals who lack the expected family love or emotional warmth. This term is used particularly in moral and ethical contexts to denote a deficiency in natural affections.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon describes ἄστοργος as “without natural affection,” highlighting its application to those who lack familial or compassionate love.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary emphasizes that ἄστοργος means “without affection” or “heartless,” particularly in the context of family relationships.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon defines ἄστοργος as “without affection,” with a focus on its usage to describe people who are lacking in familial love or emotional compassion.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s lists ἄστοργος as “without natural affection,” describing a lack of affection typically expected in familial bonds.

Bible Verses:

Support our Israeli friends

Use code: FOG20 for a 20% discount.

Learn More

• Romans 1:31 (KJV): “Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful.”
• This verse uses ἄστοργος to describe people who are devoid of natural affection, highlighting a moral failing in relationships.

3. Classic Greek Literature:

Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

• Homer and Hesiod do not use ἄστοργος, but their works often reflect on themes of affection and familial bonds, providing context for understanding the term.
• Aristotle and other philosophers discuss ethics and emotions but do not specifically use ἄστοργος. The concept of lacking affection would be relevant in their discussions on virtue and morality.

4. Summary:

ἄστοργος (astorgos) means “without natural affection” or “heartless,” denoting a lack of familial love or emotional warmth. This term is used to describe individuals who are unfeeling or deficient in the expected natural affections, particularly in moral and ethical discussions. Its absence in classic Greek literature is noted, but its concept is understood through related discussions on affection and relationships.