Strong's Lexicon arrétos: Inexpressible, unspeakable Original Word: ἄρρητος Word Origin: Derived from the Greek prefix "α-" (a-, meaning "not") and "ῥητός" (rhétos, meaning "spoken" or "expressed"). Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for "arrétos," the concept of ineffability is present in the Hebrew Scriptures. Words like "פֶּלֶא" (pele, Strong's H6382), meaning "wonder" or "miracle," convey a similar sense of something beyond human comprehension. Usage: The term "arrétos" is used to describe something that is beyond human ability to articulate or express in words. It conveys the idea of something so profound or sacred that it cannot be adequately communicated through language. In the New Testament, it is used to describe experiences or revelations that are too holy or extraordinary to be spoken. Cultural and Historical Background: In the Greco-Roman world, language was seen as a powerful tool for communication and expression. However, there was also an understanding that certain experiences, particularly those of a divine or mystical nature, transcended human language. The use of "arrétos" reflects this cultural recognition of the limitations of human speech in conveying the fullness of spiritual truths. HELPS Word-studies 731 árrhētos (from 1 /A, "not" and 4490 /rhētṓs, "speakable") – properly, can not be spoken; unutterable because beyond description. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom alpha (as a neg. prefix) and rhétos (stated) Definition unspeakable NASB Translation inexpressible (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 731: ἄρρητοςἄρρητος, ἀρρητον (ῤητός, from Ρ᾽ΑΩ); a. unsaid, unspoken: Homer, Odyssey 14, 466, and often in Attic. b. unspeakable (on account of its sacredness) (Herodotus 5, 83, and often in other writings): 2 Corinthians 12:4, explained by what follows: ἅ οὐκ ἐξόν ἀνθρώπῳ λαλῆσαι. From a (as a negative particle) and the same as rhetos; unsaid, i.e. (by implication) inexpressible -- unspeakable. see GREEK a see GREEK rhetos |
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