1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: átopos

Root Words: The Greek word ἄτοπος (átopos) is composed of α- (a-, “not”) and τόπος (topos, “place”). Thus, it literally means “not in place” or “out of place.”

Primary Meanings:

• Strange/Unusual: Refers to something that is out of the ordinary, peculiar, or unusual in a given context.
• Inappropriate: Can describe something that is inappropriate or unsuitable for a particular setting.
• Remarkable: Used to denote something that is strikingly different or extraordinary, often in a positive or surprising way.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG defines ἄτοπος as “out of place” or “strange,” emphasizing its use to describe things or behaviors that deviate from the norm or are unusual. It highlights the term’s application in contexts where something is perceived as inappropriate or remarkable due to its departure from the expected.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon describes ἄτοπος as “strange,” “unusual,” or “out of place.” It notes that the term can imply something that is not fitting or appropriate in a given situation.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary defines ἄτοπος as “out of place,” reflecting its use to describe phenomena or actions that are unexpected or peculiar.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon explains ἄτοπος as “strange” or “unusual,” used to characterize something that does not fit conventional expectations or norms.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s defines ἄτοπος as “strange” or “out of place,” focusing on its application to describe things that are irregular or unexpected.

Bible Verses:

• 1 Corinthians 14:40 (KJV): “Let all things be done decently and in order.”
• The term ἄτοπος is used in the context of behavior or practice that is considered out of place or inappropriate within the church setting.

3. Classic Greek Literature:

Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

• Plato: In his dialogues, Plato uses ἄτοπος to describe ideas or behaviors that deviate from conventional norms or expectations, reflecting on their unusual or extraordinary nature.
• Aristotle: Aristotle employed ἄτοπος in his writings to discuss concepts or occurrences that are strange or irregular in the context of natural philosophy and ethics.
• Euripides: The playwright Euripides used ἄτοπος in his tragedies to depict characters or situations that are out of the ordinary or unexpected, often highlighting their peculiar nature in the narrative.

4. Summary:

ἄτοπος (átopos) is a Greek term meaning “out of place” or “strange,” derived from α- (a-, “not”) and τόπος (topos, “place”). It describes things or behaviors that are unusual, inappropriate, or remarkable due to their deviation from the norm. In biblical texts, ἄτοπος often refers to practices or behaviors considered inappropriate or irregular. Classic Greek literature uses the term to explore and depict deviations from conventional expectations, providing insight into its broad application in describing the peculiar and extraordinary. Understanding ἄτοπος helps in recognizing its role in both historical and modern contexts as a descriptor of the unconventional and unexpected.