Brief Overview of ἄσοφος (G781: asophos)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: asophos

Root Words: The term ἄσοφος (asophos) combines the negative prefix ἀ- (a-) meaning “not” with σοφός (sophos) meaning “wise” or “skilled.”

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Primary Meanings:

• Foolish: Lacking wisdom or good judgment.
• Unskilled: Lacking expertise or proficiency in a particular area.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG defines ἄσοφος as “foolish” or “unwise.” It is used to describe someone who lacks wisdom or discernment. The lexicon notes that it conveys a sense of ignorance or ineptitude in making judgments or decisions.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon similarly translates ἄσοφος as “foolish” or “unwise,” emphasizing the lack of practical wisdom or intelligence.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary describes ἄσοφος as “foolish” or “unskilled,” focusing on the absence of wisdom and practical knowledge.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon defines ἄσοφος as “foolish” or “lacking in wisdom,” with a focus on ignorance or poor judgment.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s defines ἄσοφος as “foolish” or “unwise,” consistent with its meaning of lacking wisdom or prudence.

Bible Verses:

• Luke 11:40 (KJV): “Ye fools, did not he that made that which is without make that which is within also?”
• The term fools here translates from ἄσοφος, referring to those lacking in wisdom or understanding.
• 1 Corinthians 1:20 (KJV): “Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?”
• The term foolish relates to ἄσοφος, contrasting divine wisdom with worldly wisdom.

3. Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

• Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics: The term ἄσοφος appears in discussions about virtues and vices, referring to those who lack practical wisdom and good judgment.
• Plato’s Symposium: Used to describe individuals who lack philosophical insight or understanding, emphasizing their foolishness in contrast to the wise.
• Herodotus’ Histories: The term is employed to describe actions or decisions made without wisdom or consideration, illustrating the consequences of folly.

4. Summary:

ἄσοφος (G781: asophos) means “foolish” or “unwise,” denoting a lack of wisdom, understanding, or skill. Its use in biblical and classical Greek literature highlights the negative consequences of lacking practical wisdom and judgment. Understanding ἄσοφος provides insight into the cultural values regarding wisdom and the contrast between those who are wise and those who are not.