The Greek adjective ἀνεπίλημπτος (anepīlēmptos) means “blameless” or “irreproachable.” It is derived from the prefix ἀν- (an-), meaning “not,” and the term ἐπίλημπτος (epīlēmptos), meaning “liable to be reproached” or “blameworthy.” The term describes someone who is free from fault or accusation, possessing a reputation of moral and ethical integrity.

Detailed Overview

According to Strong’s Concordance, ἀνεπίλημπτος (G423) is used to denote someone who is blameless or beyond reproach. It appears in 1 Timothy 3:10, where Paul instructs that deacons must be “blameless” (ἀνεπίλημπτος) to hold their office. This usage emphasizes the need for high moral and ethical standards for those in leadership positions within the church.

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The Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon provides further context by defining ἀνεπίλημπτος as “blameless” or “irreproachable.” BDAG explains that the term describes a person whose conduct is above reproach, meaning they are not subject to valid criticism or accusation. This definition underscores the ideal character expected of leaders and overseers in the early Christian community.

The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon supports this by describing ἀνεπίλημπτος as “irreproachable” or “blameless.” LSJ notes its usage in classical contexts to describe individuals who are free from blame or criticism, aligning with its biblical use to highlight the standard of moral excellence required for church leaders.

In summary, ἀνεπίλημπτος primarily means “blameless” or “irreproachable,” 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 individuals who meet high standards of moral and ethical integrity in biblical and classical Greek literature.