### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **akatáschetos**, represented by `{{G183}}`, means **unrestrainable** or **unruly**. It is formed from a negative particle combined with a derivative of a word meaning "to hold down." It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single usage highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G183}}` is in [[James 3:8]], where it describes the fundamental nature of the tongue. The verse states, "But the tongue can no man tame; it is an **unruly** evil, full of deadly poison." Here, **akatáschetos** emphasizes that the tongue is beyond human power to control or restrain. It is presented not just as difficult to manage, but as innately untamable by mankind.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words from its context in James 3 help clarify the meaning of `{{G183}}`:
* `{{G1150}}` **damázō** (to tame): This is the direct contrast to **akatáschetos**. While every kind of beast, bird, and serpent can be tamed by mankind [[James 3:7]], the tongue cannot be, establishing its unique and **unruly** status.
* `{{G2556}}` **kakós** (evil): This term is directly attached to **akatáschetos**, forming the phrase "an unruly **evil**." It defines the unrestrainable nature of the tongue as intrinsically worthless and depraved.
* `{{G1100}}` **glōssa** (tongue): This is the subject described as **unruly**. The **tongue** is portrayed throughout scripture as a powerful force, capable of both praising God and expressing deceit [[Romans 3:13]].
* `{{G2287}}` **thanatḗphoros** (deadly): This adjective describes the "poison" of the unruly tongue. Its meaning, "death-bearing," highlights the fatal consequences of unrestrained speech [[James 3:8]].
* `{{G2447}}` **iós** (poison): The unruly tongue is said to be "full of" this. The word can mean venom from a serpent or rust from metal, both of which suggest corruption and decay ([[James 3:8]], [[James 5:3]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G183}}` is focused on the nature of sin as expressed through speech.
* **The Uncontrollable Nature of the Tongue:** The use of **akatáschetos** establishes that, by human effort alone, the tongue is inherently wild and cannot be restrained. It is defined in contrast to all other creatures, which man can **tame** `{{G1150}}` [[James 3:7-8]].
* **A Source of Deadly Evil:** By being described as an **unruly** `{{G183}}` **evil** `{{G2556}}`, the word underscores that the tongue's untamable quality is not neutral but actively destructive. It is characterized as being "full of **deadly** `{{G2287}}` **poison** `{{G2447}}`."
* **The Limit of Human Ability:** The declaration that "no man" can tame the tongue points to a limitation in human strength and character. It implies that controlling this **unruly** part of the body requires a power beyond the human sphere.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G183}}` **akatáschetos** is a potent and specific term. Though appearing only once, its placement in [[James 3:8]] provides a crucial piece of biblical anthropology, defining the tongue as fundamentally **unrestrainable** and untamable by human power. Paired with words for **evil**, **deadly**, and **poison**, it solidifies the concept that human speech, left to its own devices, is a powerful and destructive force.
TRV