Understanding ἀναξίως (anaxiōs) Strong’s G371: The Profound Warning Against Taking the Lord’s Supper Unworthily

Pronunciation Guide: an-ax-ee’-oce

Basic Definition

Strong’s G371: ἀναξίως is an adverb that describes actions performed in an unworthy, irreverent, or inappropriate manner, particularly in sacred contexts. It carries the weighty connotation of treating holy things with disrespect or approaching sacred matters without proper spiritual preparation and reverence. This word appears prominently in Paul’s teaching about proper observance of the Lord’s Supper.

Etymology and Morphology

• Part of Speech: Adverb
• Derived from ἀνάξιος (anaxios, G370), meaning “unworthy”
• Composed of ἀ- (negative prefix) + ἄξιος (axios, “worthy”)
• Primary usage in teaching passages concerning worship and sacred observances
• Rare in classical Greek literature but significant in New Testament teaching

ἀναξίως Morphology:

• ἀναξίως (adverbial form) – unworthily/in an unworthy manner
• ἀνάξιος (adjective form) – unworthy
• ἀναξιότης (noun form) – unworthiness

Origin & History

The word ἀναξίως emerges from classical Greek where ἄξιος (axios) was commonly used to denote something of proper weight, value, or worth. The addition of the negative prefix ἀ- transforms it into its opposite meaning. In Plato’s “Republic” (Book VI), similar constructions appear when discussing those unworthy of philosophical pursuit.

In the Septuagint, while ἀνάξιος appears occasionally, ἀναξίως is notably absent, suggesting its specialized development in Koine Greek. The early church fathers, particularly Chrysostom in his homilies on 1 Corinthians, extensively elaborated on this term’s significance in relation to the Eucharist.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• Acting without proper recognition of the sacred nature of something
• Behaving in a manner inconsistent with the dignity of holy things
• Approaching divine matters without appropriate preparation or reverence

ἀναξίως Translation Options:

• “Unworthily” – Emphasizes the personal spiritual condition
• “In an unworthy manner” – Focuses on the mode of action
• “Irreverently” – Highlights the attitude toward sacred things
• “Without proper respect” – Captures the relational aspect of the term

Biblical Usage

The term ἀναξίως appears most notably in 1 Corinthians 11:27, where Paul warns about participating in the Lord’s Supper unworthily. This usage establishes a crucial theological framework for understanding proper worship and reverence in New Testament church practice.

The gravity of this word is amplified by its rarity – it appears only twice in the New Testament, both times in contexts dealing with sacred observances. This limited usage heightens its significance when it does appear.

• “Whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord unworthily [ἀναξίως] shall be guilty of the body and the blood of the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 11:27
• “For he who eats and drinks, eats and drinks judgment to himself if he does not judge the body unworthily [ἀναξίως].” 1 Corinthians 11:29

Cultural Insights

In the first-century Messianic community, the concept of worthiness was deeply rooted in Jewish ritual purity laws and temple worship practices. The serious treatment of ἀναξίως reflects the Jewish understanding of approaching holy things with proper preparation and reverence, as seen in the strict regulations for priests entering the Temple.

The Corinthian context adds another layer of significance. The wealthy members of the congregation were treating the Lord’s Supper like a common meal, creating divisions and showing disrespect to poorer members. This cultural situation illuminates why Paul chose such a strong term to address their behavior.

Theological Significance

The use of ἀναξίως in relation to the Lord’s Supper reveals the profound connection between our approach to sacred things and our relationship with God Himself. It demonstrates that how we handle holy matters reflects our understanding of and reverence for the Messiah’s sacrifice.

The word carries implications beyond mere ritual observance – it points to the heart attitude required in worship. This connects to Yeshua’s teaching about worship in spirit and truth (John 4:24). The warning associated with ἀναξίως shows God’s concern not just with external actions but with the internal state of the worshipper.

Personal Application

In our modern context, ἀναξίως challenges us to examine our approach to sacred things, particularly in corporate worship and communion. It calls us to prepare our hearts, reconcile with others, and approach God’s presence with reverence rather than casualness.

This word reminds us that while God’s grace is freely given, our response should be one of profound gratitude and respect. We must balance the intimate relationship we have with God through the Messiah with appropriate reverence for His holiness.

Related Words

• ἄξιος (axios) – worthy, suitable, deserving (contrasting term showing positive worth) – See G514
• ἀνάξιος (anaxios) – unworthy (adjectival form) – See G370
• καταφρονέω (kataphroneō) – to despise, think little of – See G2706
• βέβηλος (bebēlos) – profane, unholy – See G952

Did you Know?

• The concept of ἀναξίως in Jewish tradition was so serious that touching the Ark of the Covenant unworthily resulted in immediate death, as seen in the case of Uzzah (2 Samuel 6:7).
• Modern Greek still uses ἀναξίως in formal religious contexts, particularly in Orthodox liturgy, maintaining its ancient connection to sacred observances.
• The early church developed specific preparation rituals, including self-examination and fasting, to help believers avoid approaching the Lord’s Supper ἀναξίως.

Remember This

ἀναξίως stands as a divine warning sign, reminding us that our approach to holy things should reflect the awesome worth of the God we serve.