ἀγνωσία – Pronunciation Guide: ag-no-SEE-ah (Greek), əgˈnōsēə (English IPA)

Basic Definition

Strong’s G56: A state of ignorance or lack of knowledge, particularly referring to spiritual or moral ignorance. This term specifically denotes a willful or culpable ignorance rather than mere absence of information.

Word Study

• Part of Speech: Feminine noun
• Language Origin: Compound of ‘α’ (negative prefix) + γνῶσις (gnōsis, knowledge)

Morphology:

• ἀγνωσία (nominative singular) – ignorance
• ἀγνωσίαν (accusative singular) – ignorance
• ἀγνωσίας (genitive singular) – of ignorance

Word Origin & History

The term ἀγνωσία emerges from classical Greek philosophy, where it was used to describe a state of intellectual or philosophical ignorance. In Plato’s works, particularly the “Republic,” the concept relates to those who dwell in darkness, unable to perceive truth and reality.

The word gained particular significance in Hellenistic philosophical discourse, where it often described those who remained unaware of deeper spiritual or philosophical truths. This usage naturally transitioned into biblical literature, where it took on specific theological implications.

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἀγνωσία appears in contexts that highlight the contrast between spiritual darkness and divine enlightenment. The term is particularly poignant in Pauline literature, where it emphasizes the state of those who have not yet received divine revelation.

Key Passages:

• 1 Corinthians 15:34 – Paul rebukes those living in ἀγνωσία of God
• 1 Peter 2:15 – Christians are called to silence the ἀγνωσία of foolish people through good conduct

Cultural Insights

In the Greco-Roman world, ἀγνωσία was often associated with the mystery religions, where ignorance of sacred knowledge marked the uninitiated. This cultural context adds depth to the New Testament’s use of the term, suggesting not just intellectual ignorance but exclusion from divine mysteries and truth.

Theological Significance

The concept of ἀγνωσία serves as a powerful reminder of humanity’s natural state apart from God’s revelation. It emphasizes that true knowledge of God comes not through human wisdom but divine revelation.

This word particularly highlights the transformative nature of the gospel, showing how God’s truth dispels spiritual darkness and brings enlightenment. It underscores the necessity of divine initiative in revealing truth to those who would otherwise remain in darkness.

Personal Application

Understanding ἀγνωσία challenges believers to examine areas where they might be willfully ignoring God’s truth. It calls for humble acknowledgment of our dependence on divine revelation and the importance of remaining teachable in our spiritual journey.

Related Words

• ἄγνοια (ignorance, lack of knowledge) – See G52
• γνῶσις (knowledge, especially spiritual knowledge) – See G1108
• ἐπίγνωσις (full knowledge, discernment) – See G1922

Did you Know?

• The term ἀγνωσία is still used in modern Greek to describe a state of ignorance or unawareness
• In ancient Greek medical texts, ἀγνωσία described the state of unconsciousness
• The English word “agnostic” derives from the same root as ἀγνωσία

Remember This

From spiritual darkness to divine light, ἀγνωσία reminds us that true knowledge begins with acknowledging our need for God’s revelation.