### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb ἀναντιῤῥήτως (anantirrhḗtōs), Strong's number `{{G369}}`, is derived from the adjective ἀναντιῤῥητος (anantirrhētos), meaning "without contradiction" or "undeniable." The word itself is a compound, formed from the alpha privative (ἀ-) negating ἀντιῤῥητός (antirrhētos), which means "spoken against" or "gainsaid." Thus, its core meaning is "without gainsaying," "without contradiction," or "undeniably." As an adverb, it describes an action performed in a manner that is free from dispute, objection, or hesitation. It conveys a sense of immediate, unquestioning compliance or acceptance, implying that no argument or opposition was offered. The nuance of "promptly" arises from this lack of resistance or delay.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The adverb ἀναντιῤῥήτως appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[Acts 10:29]]. This singular occurrence is highly significant for understanding the word's import:
* **[[Acts 10:29]]**: Peter, addressing Cornelius and his household, states, "So when I was sent for, I came without gainsaying. I ask then, for what reason have you sent for me?"
* In this pivotal moment of early church history, Peter has been summoned by Cornelius, a Gentile centurion, through a divine vision. Peter himself had a parallel vision on the rooftop in Joppa, which challenged his long-held Jewish dietary laws and, by extension, his separation from Gentiles. Despite the profound cultural and religious barriers, Peter's declaration "without gainsaying" (ἀναντιῤῥήτως) underscores his immediate and unhesitating obedience to the divine command. He did not object, question, or delay, even though the request was unprecedented and potentially defiling according to Jewish custom. This swift compliance was crucial for the gospel to begin its expansion to the Gentiles, demonstrating Peter's submission to God's leading over his own traditions.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of ἀναντιῤῥήτως is illuminated by its relationship to other Greek terms:
* **ἀναντιῤῥητος (anantirrhētos) `{{G368}}`**: This is the adjective form from which the adverb is derived. It means "not to be gainsaid" or "undeniable." It appears in [[Acts 19:36]], where the town clerk of Ephesus tells the crowd concerning the worship of Artemis, "Since these things cannot be denied..." (ἀναντιῤῥήτων). Both the adjective and the adverb emphasize the irrefutable nature of a statement or the unquestioning nature of an action.
* **ἀντιλέγω (antilegō) `{{G483}}`**: Meaning "to speak against," "to contradict," or "to gainsay," this verb represents the direct opposite of the concept conveyed by ἀναντιῤῥήτως. The absence of ἀντιλέγω is precisely what ἀναντιῤῥήτως describes.
* **ὑπακούω (hypakouō) `{{G5219}}`**: This verb means "to listen under," implying "to obey" or "to comply." While ἀναντιῤῥήτως describes the *manner* of obedience (without objection), ὑπακούω describes the *act* of obedience itself. Peter's coming "without gainsaying" is a demonstration of his ὑπακούω to the divine call.
* **εὐθέως (eutheōs) `{{G2112}}` / παραχρῆμα (parachrēma) `{{G3916}}`**: These adverbs mean "immediately" or "at once." While ἀναντιῤῥήτως emphasizes the *lack of objection*, it often implies promptness, aligning with the sense of immediate action conveyed by these words. The lack of gainsaying leads to swiftness.
### Theological Significance
The single occurrence of ἀναντιῤῥήτως in [[Acts 10:29]] carries profound theological weight. Peter's declaration signifies a crucial turning point in redemptive history and offers a model for believers:
1. **Unquestioning Obedience to Divine Revelation**: The term highlights the theological necessity of immediate and unquestioning submission to God's revealed will, especially when it challenges established traditions, personal biases, or cultural norms. Peter's willingness to set aside deeply ingrained Jewish customs demonstrates a heart yielded to the Spirit's leading, even when it was initially perplexing or uncomfortable.
2. **Facilitating God's Inclusive Plan**: Peter's "without gainsaying" was instrumental in the expansion of the gospel beyond its Jewish origins. His humble obedience paved the way for the inclusion of Gentiles into the body of Christ, dismantling the dividing wall of hostility (cf. [[Ephesians 2:14]]). This act of compliance was not just personal but had monumental implications for the universal nature of the Church.
3. **A Model of Faith and Humility**: The word portrays Peter as a humble servant, ready to follow God's direction even when it defied his previous understanding. It underscores that true faith involves not just belief but also a readiness to act upon that belief without resistance or argument, trusting in God's wisdom and sovereign plan. It serves as an example for believers to respond to God's call with a receptive and compliant spirit.
### Summary
The Greek adverb ἀναντιῤῥήτως (anantirrhḗtōs) signifies an action performed "without gainsaying," "without contradiction," or "undeniably," implying a prompt and unquestioning response. Though appearing only once in the New Testament, its use in [[Acts 10:29]] is highly significant. Peter's declaration that he came "without gainsaying" to Cornelius's house exemplifies immediate and humble obedience to divine instruction, even when it challenged his deeply ingrained cultural and religious norms. This single word underscores the theological importance of unhesitating submission to God's will, particularly when He is ushering in new phases of His redemptive plan. Peter's attitude, free from objection or delay, was pivotal in facilitating the expansion of the gospel to the Gentiles, establishing a profound model of faith and receptivity for all believers.
TRV