### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **átheos**, represented by `{{G112}}`, defines the state of being **godless** or "without God". It is derived from a negative particle (Α) and the word for God (θεός). This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use highlights a profound state of separation from the divine.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G112}}` is in [[Ephesians 2:12]], which describes the condition of people before being united with Christ. The verse states that they were "without Christ `{{G5547}}`, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel `{{G2474}}`, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and **without God** in the world". In this context, being **without God** is the culmination of a series of separations: from the Messiah, from God's chosen community, and from His promises.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its only context illuminate the meaning of being **without God**:
* `{{G526}}` **apallotrióō** (to estrange away): This word describes being an alien or non-participant. It emphasizes the active separation from the "commonwealth of Israel" [[Ephesians 2:12]] and the "life of God" [[Ephesians 4:18]].
* `{{G3581}}` **xénos** (foreign): This term denotes being a **stranger**, highlighting the state of being an outsider to the "covenants of promise" established by God [[Ephesians 2:12]]. It implies a lack of belonging and familiarity with God's ways.
* `{{G1680}}` **elpís** (expectation or confidence): The state of being without God is directly linked to "having no **hope**" [[Ephesians 2:12]]. This shows that separation from God results in a loss of divine assurance and confident expectation for the future.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G112}}` is significant despite its single use, as it defines the human condition apart from divine intervention.
* **Alienation from Community:** Being "without God" is tied to being alienated from the **commonwealth** `{{G4174}}` of **Israel** `{{G2474}}`, the historic community of God's people [[Ephesians 2:12]]. This suggests that knowing God is connected to being part of His covenant family.
* **Exclusion from Covenants:** The term is associated with being a stranger to the **covenants** `{{G1242}}` of **promise** `{{G1860}}`. This signifies a state of being outside the legal and relational agreements God made with humanity, which are fulfilled in **Christ** `{{G5547}}`.
* **A Condition of Hopelessness:** The ultimate consequence of being without God is described as a life "having no **hope** `{{G1680}}`" [[Ephesians 2:12]]. This positions a relationship with God as the foundational source of all true hope and confidence.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G112}}` is more than a simple declaration of atheism; it is a profound theological description of separation. As used in scripture, it defines a state of being without **Christ** `{{G5547}}`, alienated from God's people and promises, and consequently, living without **hope** `{{G1680}}` in the world. Its singular appearance in [[Ephesians 2:12]] serves as a powerful anchor for understanding the state of humanity prior to reconciliation with God.
TRV