Brief Overview of ἀνωφελής (Strong’s G512)

The Greek word ἀνωφελής (anōphélēs) means “useless” or “unprofitable.” It is used to describe something that does not provide benefit or value. The term is derived from ἀνώφελος (anōphélēs), which combines ἀν- (an-), a prefix meaning “not,” with ὠφέλιμος (ōphélimos), meaning “useful” or “beneficial.” Thus, ἀνωφελής conveys the idea of something being of no use or benefit.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance: Strong’s defines ἀνωφελής as “useless” or “unprofitable.” It highlights that this term is used to describe things or actions that do not contribute any practical benefit or positive outcome.
2. Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon: BDAG provides a nuanced definition of ἀνωφελής as “useless” or “unprofitable.” The lexicon explains that the term is employed to characterize something that lacks utility or practical value, often in moral or ethical contexts where something fails to achieve its intended purpose.
3. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon: LSJ defines ἀνωφελής as “useless” or “unprofitable,” emphasizing its application in contexts where something does not contribute to a positive outcome or benefit. The lexicon underscores that ἀνωφελής is used to describe things or actions that are ineffective or of no practical value.
4. Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon: Thayer’s describes ἀνωφελής as “useless” or “unprofitable,” focusing on its use to denote something that does not serve a beneficial purpose. Thayer’s highlights that the term conveys a lack of utility or benefit, often used in moral or spiritual discussions to critique actions or attitudes that are ineffective or counterproductive.

In summary, ἀνωφελής (anōphélēs) means “useless” or “unprofitable” and is used to describe things or actions that do not provide any practical benefit or positive outcome. Definitions from Strong’s Concordance, BDAG, LSJ, and Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon all emphasize the term’s connotation of lacking utility or effectiveness.