### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **alálētos**, represented by `{{G215}}`, describes something that is **unspeakable** or **unutterable**. Derived from Α (as a negative particle) and a word related to speaking, it literally means that which cannot be uttered. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single usage highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{G215}}` is in the context of the Holy Spirit's intercession for believers. In [[Romans 8:26]], it is explained that because of our **infirmities** and not knowing what we should pray for, the Spirit itself intercedes on our behalf "with groanings which **cannot be uttered**" [[Romans 8:26]]. This word qualifies the nature of the Spirit's communication, highlighting that it transcends human speech.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same verse illuminate the context of this unutterable expression:
* `{{G4726}}` **stenagmós** (a sigh:--groaning): This noun is what `{{G215}}` directly modifies. The Spirit's intercession is made with these **groanings**. In another context, God heard the **groaning** of his people in Egypt [[Acts 7:34]].
* `{{G5241}}` **hyperentynchánō** (to intercede in behalf of:--make intercession for): This is the specific action the Spirit takes on our behalf. It describes a deep intercession that is accomplished through the unutterable groanings [[Romans 8:26]].
* `{{G769}}` **asthéneia** (feebleness... infirmity, sickness, weakness): This word establishes the reason for the Spirit's intervention. It is in response to our human **weakness** that the Spirit helps us in prayer. Paul also took pleasure in his **infirmities** for Christ's sake [[2 Corinthians 12:10]].
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (a spirit... the Holy Spirit): This identifies the divine agent who intercedes. The **Spirit** performs this work, distinct from our own human ability. God has not given a **spirit** of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind [[2 Timothy 1:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G215}}` is concentrated on the ministry of the Holy Spirit in prayer.
* **The Spirit's Intercession:** The primary theological point is that the Holy Spirit acts as an intercessor for believers. This action is not verbal but is communicated through **groanings** that cannot be expressed in human words [[Romans 8:26]].
* **Divine Help in Human Weakness:** The word underscores the reality of human limitation, or **infirmity** `{{G769}}`. Our inability to always know how to **pray for** `{{G4336}}` things as we ought is met by the Spirit who **helpeth** `{{G4878}}` us, compensating for our weakness.
* **Communication Beyond Language:** The concept of something being "unutterable" points to a form of communication that is deeper than human language. The groanings of the Spirit are a profound expression of our needs, understood by God even when they cannot be articulated by us.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G215}}` **alálētos**, while appearing only once, offers a profound insight into the Christian life. It defines the "unutterable" nature of the Spirit's intercession for believers in their weakness. The word communicates a reality where prayer transcends words, and the Holy Spirit itself articulates our deepest needs to God in a way that we cannot. It is a powerful descriptor of divine assistance in the face of human frailty.
TRV