The Greek word ἀνόητος (anóētos) is an adjective that means “without understanding” or “foolish.” It is used to describe someone who lacks mental clarity or comprehension, often implying a lack of wisdom or insight. The term appears in the New Testament to refer to individuals who are considered unwise or lacking in discernment.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance: According to Strong’s, ἀνόητος (G453) is derived from the combination of ἀ- (a-, “without”) and νόησις (nóēsis, “understanding”), and thus it means “foolish” or “without understanding.” The concordance provides a basic definition but does not delve into specific usage or context within the scriptures.
2. Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon: BDAG defines ἀνόητος as “foolish” or “senseless.” It is used to describe individuals who are irrational or lacking in wisdom. The lexicon provides examples from the New Testament where this term is applied, highlighting its use in a moral or ethical context to critique lack of insight or understanding.
3. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon: LSJ describes ἀνόητος as “unthinking” or “foolish.” It emphasizes the term’s application to those who act without due consideration or understanding. The entry includes references to classical and biblical usage, noting its role in describing individuals who fail to grasp important truths or principles.
4. Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon: Thayer’s defines ἀνόητος as “unwise,” “senseless,” or “foolish.” The lexicon notes that it is used to describe people who lack proper judgment or understanding. Thayer’s entry provides context for its usage in the New Testament, indicating that it is often used to critique moral or spiritual deficiencies.

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In summary, ἀνόητος (anóētos) generally refers to someone who is foolish or lacks understanding. All major lexicons—Strong’s Concordance, BDAG, LSJ, and Thayer’s—confirm that it describes individuals who are considered to lack wisdom or discernment, often in a moral or ethical context.