### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **álogos**, represented by `{{G249}}`, means **irrational**. It is derived from a negative particle and λόγος (logos), and it appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**. The term is used to describe something as **brute** or **unreasonable**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{G249}}` is used to condemn the behavior of certain individuals by comparing them to animals. In 2 Peter, they are described as "natural **brute** beasts, made to be taken and destroyed" [[2 Peter 2:12]]. Jude uses a similar description, stating that what they know naturally, they know "as **brute** beasts" and in these things they corrupt themselves [[Jude 1:10]]. In a different context, in the book of Acts, the word describes a lack of sound judgment, where it "seemeth... **unreasonable** to send a prisoner" without also signifying the charges against him [[Acts 25:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G249}}`:
* `{{G2226}}` **zōon** (a live thing, i.e. an animal:--beast): This word appears directly with `{{G249}}` to describe those who act without reason as "**brute** beasts" ([[2 Peter 2:12]], [[Jude 1:10]]).
* `{{G5446}}` **physikós** ("physical", i.e. (by implication) instinctive):--natural: This adjective is paired with `{{G249}}` to emphasize that the behavior is like that of "natural **brute** beasts" [[2 Peter 2:12]], driven by instinct rather than reason.
* `{{G50}}` **agnoéō** (not to know (through lack of information or intelligence)): This concept of ignorance is central to the meaning of `{{G249}}`, as those described as brute beasts "speak evil of the things that they understand not" [[2 Peter 2:12]].
* `{{G156}}` **aitía** (a cause (as if asked for), i.e. (logical) reason (motive, matter), (legal) crime): In the legal context of Acts, it is considered **unreasonable** `{{G249}}` to send a prisoner without specifying the **crimes** `{{G156}}` against him, linking irrationality to a lack of legal cause [[Acts 25:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G249}}` is found in its sharp contrasts.
* **Instinct Over Reason:** The word is used to draw a distinction between divine reason and base, animal instinct. False teachers are depicted as operating like "**brute** beasts," who "speak evil of the things that they understand not" ([[2 Peter 2:12]], [[Jude 1:10]]).
* **A State of Corruption:** Being `álogos` is directly linked to moral decay and destruction. These individuals are described as "made to be taken and destroyed" and will "utterly perish in their own corruption" [[2 Peter 2:12]]. Similarly, in the things they know naturally, "they corrupt themselves" [[Jude 1:10]].
* **Lack of Logical Grounds:** In Acts, `{{G249}}` highlights the importance of reason in matters of justice. It is deemed **unreasonable** to act without presenting the corresponding **crimes** `{{G156}}`, establishing that proper judgment requires a logical foundation [[Acts 25:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G249}}` **álogos** is a term that describes a state devoid of reason or logic. It is applied both to the instinct-driven, corrupt nature of false teachers who act like **brute** beasts destined for destruction [[2 Peter 2:12]] and to procedural failings that are **unreasonable** due to a lack of logical grounds [[Acts 25:27]]. The word effectively contrasts godly wisdom with a state of being that is either animalistic or illogical.
TRV