Understanding Ἀσύγκριτος (Asunkritos) Strong’s G799: The Unique and Incomparable One Who Points to Messiah’s Distinctiveness

Pronunciation Guide: ah-SOON-kree-tos

Basic Definition

Strong’s G799: Ἀσύγκριτος (Asunkritos) literally means “incomparable” or “beyond comparison.” This compound word combines the negative prefix “α-” (meaning “not”) with συγκρίνω (sunkrino), meaning “to compare or judge by comparison.” The name carries the profound meaning of someone or something that is so unique it defies comparison with anything else.

Etymology and Morphology

• Part of Speech: Proper Noun (Masculine)
• Origin: Compound of α- (negative prefix) + συγκρίνω (to compare)
• Primary Usage: Personal name in epistolary literature
• Language Origin: Koine Greek
• Literary Context: Used in personal greetings

Ἀσύγκριτος Morphology:

• Ἀσύγκριτος (nominative singular) – Asyncritus
• Ἀσυγκρίτου (genitive singular) – of Asyncritus
• Ἀσυγκρίτῳ (dative singular) – to/for Asyncritus
• Ἀσύγκριτον (accusative singular) – Asyncritus (as object)

Origin & History

The name Ἀσύγκριτος appears in classical Greek literature as early as the 4th century BCE, often used as an adjective to describe things of incomparable worth or beauty. In Hellenistic times, it became popular as a personal name, particularly among freed slaves who wanted to emphasize their unique value and dignity.

The term gained particular significance in philosophical writings, where Plutarch used it to describe things that were beyond comparison in his “Moralia.” The concept also appears in various papyri discoveries from the Ptolemaic period, where it was used to describe exceptional qualities or unique characteristics.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• One who is beyond comparison
• A person of unique qualities
• Someone incomparable or matchless
• One who stands apart from others

Ἀσύγκριτος Translation Options:

• Asyncritus (transliteration) – Preferred when referring to the specific individual in Romans 16:14
• Incomparable One – When emphasizing the meaning behind the name
• Beyond Compare – When focusing on the etymological significance
• Matchless – When highlighting the unique nature of the individual

Biblical Usage

Ἀσύγκριτος appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in Romans 16:14 where Paul sends greetings to a group of believers in Rome. While the name appears just once, its placement within Paul’s carefully crafted list of greetings suggests this individual held a significant position within the Roman church community.

The name’s meaning aligns beautifully with the biblical theme of the uniqueness of God’s people and their special calling. Though we only have this single reference, the meaning of the name resonates with numerous passages that speak of God’s incomparable nature and the unique identity He gives His people.

• “Greet Asyncritus [Ἀσύγκριτος], Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas, and the brothers who are with them.” Romans 16:14

Cultural Insights

In the Roman world, names often carried significant meaning and could indicate social status, family heritage, or personal qualities. The name Ἀσύγκριτος would have been particularly meaningful in a society where social hierarchies were rigid and comparison between individuals was constant. For a freed slave to bear this name would have been a powerful statement of individual worth and dignity.

The use of this name in the early church community also reflects the radical equality found in Messiah, where social distinctions were transcended by unity in faith. This aligns with Paul’s teaching that in Messiah there is neither slave nor free, but all are one in Him (Galatians 3:28).

Theological Significance

The meaning of Ἀσύγκριτος points to a profound theological truth: just as this name means “incomparable,” our God stands as the truly Incomparable One. This connects with numerous biblical passages that declare God’s uniqueness, such as Isaiah 40:18: “To whom then will you liken God? Or what likeness will you compare with Him?”

The name also reflects the unique calling of God’s people, who are set apart as incomparable vessels for His glory. This distinctiveness isn’t based on human merit but on God’s sovereign choice and transforming work in our lives, making us unique bearers of His image and witnesses to His grace.

Personal Application

When we understand the meaning of Ἀσύγκριτος, we’re reminded that each believer has a unique calling and gift mix that makes them incomparable in God’s kingdom work. This should encourage us to embrace our God-given uniqueness while celebrating the distinctive gifts and callings of others in the body of Messiah.

In a world that constantly compares and ranks people, this name challenges us to see ourselves and others through God’s eyes – as uniquely created and incomparably valuable in His sight.

Related Words

• μονογενής (monogenes) – unique, one and only – emphasizes absolute uniqueness versus comparative uniqueness See G3439
• ἐξαίρετος (exairetos) – exceptional, special – focuses on being chosen or selected as special See G1847
• ἔκλεκτος (eklektos) – chosen, elect – relates to being specially selected by God See G1588
• μοναδικός (monadikos) – unique, singular – emphasizes standing alone in category See G3441

Did you Know?

• Archaeological evidence suggests that Ἀσύγκριτος was a relatively common name among freed slaves in first-century Rome, possibly reflecting their desire to assert their unique worth after gaining freedom.
• The concept of incomparability in ancient Greek thought was often associated with divine attributes, making this name particularly meaningful in a Christian context where believers were called to reflect God’s unique character.
• Modern Greek still uses the word ασύγκριτος as an adjective meaning “incomparable” or “unparalleled,” particularly in literary and formal contexts.

Remember This

Ἀσύγκριτος reminds us that in Messiah, each believer stands as an incomparable masterpiece of God’s grace, uniquely gifted and called for His divine purposes.