### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ákakos**, represented by `{{G172}}`, defines that which is "not bad." It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning encompasses both objective innocence, translated as **harmless**, and a subjective, unsuspecting nature, translated as **simple**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G172}}` presents a significant contrast. In Hebrews, it is used to describe Jesus Christ as the ideal **high priest** who is **holy**, **harmless**, **undefiled**, and **separate from sinners** [[Hebrews 7:26]]. This highlights a state of perfect, incorruptible innocence. Conversely, in Romans, it describes the **simple**, whose **hearts** are susceptible to being deceived by those who use **good words** and **fair speeches** to serve their own interests rather than the **Lord Jesus Christ** [[Romans 16:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify the context of `{{G172}}`:
* `{{G1818}}` **exapatáō** (to seduce wholly:--beguile, deceive): This is the action performed against the **simple**, showing the danger of an unsuspecting nature [[Romans 16:18]].
* `{{G3741}}` **hósios** (hallowed (pious, sacred, sure)): This term is used in parallel with **harmless** to describe the divine character of Christ as the **high priest** [[Hebrews 7:26]].
* `{{G283}}` **amíantos** (unsoiled, i.e. (figuratively) pure): This word further emphasizes the perfect state of the **high priest**, who is described as **harmless** and **undefiled** [[Hebrews 7:26]].
* `{{G749}}` **archiereús** (the high-priest): This is the title given to Christ, whose qualification as **harmless** `{{G172}}` is essential for His role [[Hebrews 7:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{G172}}` is revealed in its two distinct applications:
* **The Perfection of Christ:** The word is used to define the flawless character of Jesus. As our **high priest**, He is perfectly **harmless**, **holy**, and **undefiled**, which **became** us and qualified Him to be our representative before God [[Hebrews 7:26]].
* **The Vulnerability of the Unsuspecting:** In a different context, the word describes a state of being **simple** that can be exploited. It serves as a warning about those who use **fair speeches** `{{G2129}}` to **deceive** the **hearts** of those who are not on guard [[Romans 16:18]].
* **A Duality of Character:** The use of `{{G172}}` shows that while blamelessness is a divine attribute in Christ, a simple or unsuspecting nature in believers can become a point of weakness if not guided by wisdom and discernment.
### Summary
In summary, **ákakos** `{{G172}}` is a concise term carrying a profound duality. It defines both the absolute, objective purity of Christ as our **harmless high priest** and the subjective, unsuspecting state of the **simple** who are vulnerable to deception. This contrast illustrates how a single quality can be a divine strength in one context and a human liability in another, underscoring the importance of discerning wisdom.
TRV