The Greek adjective ἀνεκλάλητος (aneklētos) means “irreproachable” or “beyond reproach.” It is derived from the prefix ἀν- (an-), meaning “not,” and ἐκλάλητος (eklētos), meaning “to be called out” or “to be summoned,” implying a sense of being free from blame or accusation. The term describes someone or something that cannot be criticized or reproached.

Detailed Overview

According to Strong’s Concordance, ἀνεκλάλητος (G412) is used in the New Testament to denote someone who is free from any fault or reproach. It is found in 1 Timothy 3:10, where it describes the necessary qualities for deacons, emphasizing that they must be “irreproachable” or “blameless” in their conduct. This term underscores the high standard of moral and ethical integrity required for church leaders.

The Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon elaborates on ἀνεκλάλητος by noting that it means “beyond reproach” or “irreproachable.” BDAG highlights its use in ecclesiastical contexts, where it signifies that an individual must maintain a character that is unassailable and free from valid criticism. This quality is essential for maintaining trust and authority within the church.

The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon supports this definition by describing ἀνεκλάλητος as “irreproachable” or “beyond reproach.” LSJ emphasizes that the term is used to describe individuals who are free from any legitimate criticism or blame, reflecting its application in contexts where a high standard of integrity is required.

In summary, ἀνεκλάλητος primarily means “irreproachable” or “beyond reproach,” indicating a state of being free from fault or criticism. This meaning is consistently supported by Strong’s Concordance, BDAG, and LSJ, each providing context for its use in describing the moral and ethical standards expected in leadership roles within biblical and classical Greek literature.