Pronunciation Guide: ah-met-ak-EE-nay-tos

Basic Definition

Strong’s G277: ἀμετακίνητος describes something that is unmovable, immovable, or firmly fixed. It represents an unshakeable stability that cannot be moved, shifted, or dislodged from its position. This rare and powerful word conveys absolute steadfastness and unwavering commitment.

Etymology and Morphology

• Compound word formed from three parts:
• ἀ- (a-): negative prefix meaning “not”
• μετα- (meta-): prefix meaning “change” or “after”
• κινέω (kineo): verb meaning “to move” or “to set in motion”
• Part of Speech: Adjective
• Used primarily in teaching and exhortation contexts
• Found in philosophical and architectural contexts in classical Greek

ἀμετακίνητος Morphology:

• ἀμετακίνητος (nominative singular) – immovable
• ἀμετακίνητον (accusative singular) – immovable (as object)
• ἀμετακίνητοι (nominative plural) – immovable ones

Origin & History

The word emerged in classical Greek literature, particularly in philosophical works discussing unchangeable principles and architectural treatises describing unmovable foundations. Plato used it in “The Republic” to describe the immutable nature of truth and justice. Aristotle employed it in “Metaphysics” when discussing the concept of the unmoved mover.

In Hellenistic architecture, the term described massive foundation stones that formed the immovable base of important structures, particularly temples. This technical usage provides rich imagery for its later biblical application.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• Something that cannot be moved from its position or stance
• A state of being firmly established beyond the possibility of change
• An unshakeable resolve or commitment that remains steady

ἀμετακίνητος Translation Options:

• “Immovable” – Emphasizes the physical impossibility of movement
• “Unshakeable” – Captures the metaphorical sense of spiritual steadfastness
• “Firmly established” – Reflects the architectural background
• “Unwavering” – Highlights the aspect of consistent commitment

Biblical Usage

The word appears only once in the New Testament, making its usage particularly significant. Paul employs it as the culminating characteristic of faithful believers who understand the reality of resurrection hope. Its singular appearance magnifies its impact and suggests careful, intentional selection by the apostle.

• “[Therefore], my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable [ἀμετακίνητος], always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:58

Cultural Insights

In ancient Greek architecture, the term ἀμετακίνητος was used to describe the massive foundation stones of temples and important buildings. These stones, often weighing several tons, were so precisely cut and positioned that they couldn’t be moved even by earthquakes. This architectural context would have resonated powerfully with the Corinthian believers, as their city was known for its impressive temples and buildings constructed with such immovable foundations.

The concept also carried significant meaning in Jewish tradition, where the Temple in Jerusalem was built upon the immovable foundation stone (Even ha-Shetiyah) believed to be the point from which the world was created. This cultural synthesis of Greek architecture and Jewish theology creates a rich tapestry of meaning for Paul’s readers.

Theological Significance

The use of ἀμετακίνητος in 1 Corinthians 15:58 comes at the conclusion of Paul’s magnificent exposition of the resurrection. This placement is significant because it connects unwavering faith to the certainty of our future hope in the Messiah. The resurrection of Yeshua serves as the immovable foundation upon which all Christian faith and practice stand.

This immovability is not mere stubbornness but rather a divine quality that reflects God’s own unchangeable nature. Just as He is faithful and unchanging (Malachi 3:6), believers are called to mirror this characteristic in their faith and service.

The word also suggests that our faith should be like the Temple’s foundation stone – unmoved by cultural pressures, personal difficulties, or spiritual attacks. This immovability is not passive but active, combining steadfastness with abundant service to the Lord.

Personal Application

In a world of constant change and shifting values, ἀμετακίνητος challenges believers to cultivate a faith that remains steady regardless of circumstances. Like a building’s foundation stone, our commitment to the Lord should be immovable, providing stability not only for our own spiritual life but also supporting others in the community of faith.

This immovability doesn’t mean rigidity or inflexibility in method, but rather an unshakeable commitment to the fundamental truths of our faith and the calling God has placed on our lives. When we understand that our labor in the Lord is never in vain, we can serve with both steadfast determination and joyful abundance.

Related Words

• στερεός (stereos) – firm, solid, stable (emphasizes internal strength) See G4731
• βέβαιος (bebaios) – firm, secure, certain (focuses on reliability) See G949
• ἑδραῖος (hedraios) – seated, settled, steadfast (suggests being well-grounded) See G1476
• ἀσάλευτος (asaleutos) – unshakeable, immovable (emphasizes inability to be disturbed) See G761

Did you Know?

• The architectural term ἀμετακίνητος was used in ancient building contracts to guarantee that structures would remain stable for a specified period, often 100 years or more.
• The concept of immovability was so important in ancient Greek philosophy that it became a key argument in proving the existence of God as the “Unmoved Mover” in Aristotelian thought.
• Modern Greek still uses this word in legal contexts to describe “irrevocable” decisions or contracts, maintaining its sense of absolute unchangeability.

Remember This

ἀμετακίνητος represents not just stability, but the divine quality of absolute steadfastness that enables believers to stand firm in faith while abounding in the Lord’s work, anchored in the unshakeable hope of resurrection.