### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ἀμαθής (amathḗs)**, represented by `{{G261}}`, means **ignorant** or **unlearned**. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Derived from a negative particle combined with the word for "to learn," it denotes a state of being untaught or lacking knowledge, which has severe spiritual consequences in its biblical context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G261}}` is in [[2 Peter 3:16]]. The verse discusses Paul's **epistles** `{{G1992}}`, acknowledging that **in** `{{G1722}}` them are **some things** `{{G5100}}` that are **hard to be understood** `{{G1425}}`. It is the **unlearned** `{{G261}}` **and** `{{G2532}}` **unstable** `{{G793}}` who **wrest** `{{G4761}}`, or pervert, these passages, just **as** `{{G5613}}` they do with the **other** `{{G3062}}` **scriptures** `{{G1124}}`. This distortion ultimately leads **unto** `{{G4314}}` their **own** `{{G2398}}` **destruction** `{{G684}}` [[2 Peter 3:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and consequence of being **unlearned**:
* `{{G793}}` **astḗriktos** (unstable): Paired directly with **amathḗs**, this word means "unfixed, i.e. (figuratively) vacillating." It highlights that a lack of learning contributes to a spiritually wavering condition [[2 Peter 3:16]].
* `{{G4761}}` **streblóō** (wrest): This is the action of the unlearned, meaning "to wrench... to pervert." It conveys a violent distortion of the scriptures, not just a simple misunderstanding [[2 Peter 3:16]].
* `{{G1124}}` **graphḗ** (scripture): This refers to "holy Writ" and is the object that the unlearned pervert. Their actions are not directed at just any writing, but specifically at the sacred texts [[2 Peter 3:16]].
* `{{G684}}` **apṓleia** (destruction): This word, meaning "ruin or loss," describes the ultimate end for those who are unlearned and unstable and who wrest the scriptures. The consequence is eternal perdition [[2 Peter 3:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G261}}` is significant despite its single use, serving as a solemn warning.
* **Peril of Ignorance:** The term establishes that being **unlearned** `{{G261}}` is not a neutral state but one fraught with spiritual danger, as it can lead to the perversion of scripture [[2 Peter 3:16]].
* **Link Between Instability and Interpretation:** Being **unlearned** is explicitly connected with being **unstable** `{{G793}}`. This suggests that a firm foundation in truth is necessary for correct interpretation; without it, one is prone to vacillate and fall into error.
* **Destructive Consequences:** The actions of the unlearned are not without consequence. By wresting scriptures, they bring about their **own** `{{G2398}}` **destruction** `{{G684}}`, highlighting the severe end that awaits those who mishandle God's word.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G261}}` **amathḗs** provides a focused but powerful warning. It identifies a state of being **unlearned** that, when coupled with an **unstable** `{{G793}}` character, leads to the dangerous act of twisting scripture. This distortion of God's word is not a benign academic error but a path that leads directly to **destruction** `{{G684}}`, emphasizing the critical importance of sound learning and stability in one's faith.
TRV