G56

ἀγνωσία (Agnōsia):
The Greek word “ἀγνωσία” (agnōsia) translates to “ignorance.” It refers to a lack of knowledge or awareness, particularly in a moral or spiritual context. The term signifies a state of being uninformed or unacquainted with certain truths or facts, often implying a lack of understanding or enlightenment.

Detailed Overview Incorporating Other Concordances

ἀγνωσία (Agnōsia):

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• Meaning: According to Strong’s Concordance (G56), “ἀγνωσία” means “ignorance” or “lack of knowledge.” It denotes a state of not knowing or being unaware of certain facts or truths. In biblical contexts, it often refers to a lack of understanding about divine truths or moral principles. It can also imply a degree of negligence or disregard for important spiritual knowledge.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Meaning: Thayer’s Lexicon defines “ἀγνωσία” as “ignorance” or “a lack of knowledge.” Thayer’s elaborates that the term is used to describe a state where someone is uninformed or unaware of specific information, particularly in relation to religious or ethical matters. It often implies that this ignorance can lead to misguided actions or attitudes. The term is found in passages such as Acts 17:30 and Ephesians 4:18, where it reflects a deficiency in spiritual understanding.

1. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words:

• Meaning: Vine’s Dictionary describes “ἀγνωσία” as “ignorance” or “lack of knowledge.” Vine’s emphasizes that this term refers to a state of being uninformed or unaware, especially in spiritual and moral contexts. It highlights how such ignorance can impact one’s behavior and relationship with God. The dictionary explains that this ignorance is often contrasted with the knowledge of God and His will, as seen in passages like 1 Timothy 1:13 and 1 Peter 1:14.

1. Louw-Nida Greek-English Lexicon:

• Meaning: The Louw-Nida Lexicon categorizes “ἀγνωσία” as a term related to “ignorance” or “lack of knowledge.” It defines the term as referring to a state of being uninformed or lacking awareness, especially regarding spiritual or moral truths. The lexicon notes that this ignorance can affect one’s behavior and understanding of divine matters, reflecting a need for enlightenment and correction.

1. Moulton-Milligan Vocabulary of the Greek New Testament:

• Meaning: Moulton-Milligan defines “ἀγνωσία” as “ignorance” or “lack of knowledge.” The vocabulary highlights that this term denotes a state of not knowing or being unaware of important information, particularly in spiritual and ethical contexts. It underscores how such ignorance can result in incorrect beliefs or actions, and emphasizes the need for acquiring knowledge and understanding.

Summary:
“ἀγνωσία” (agnōsia) translates to “ignorance,” referring to a state of lacking knowledge or awareness. According to Strong’s, Thayer’s, Vine’s, Louw-Nida, and Moulton-Milligan, the term signifies a deficiency in understanding, especially in moral and spiritual contexts. It highlights the impact of being uninformed on one’s behavior and relationship with God, and the importance of seeking enlightenment and knowledge to correct such ignorance. The term is used to describe a state of unawareness that can lead to misguided actions and attitudes, as seen in various New Testament passages.