### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aneleḗmōn**, represented by `{{G415}}`, is defined as **merciless** or **unmerciful**. It is formed from the negative particle "A" and the word "ἐλεήμων," indicating a negation of mercy. This specific term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, highlighting its focused application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G415}}` is in [[Romans 1:31]], where it is part of a list describing the characteristics of a depraved mind. It is listed alongside other negative attributes such as being "without understanding," "covenantbreakers," "without natural affection," and "implacable" [[Romans 1:31]]. In this context, being **unmerciful** is presented as a significant moral and spiritual failure, concluding a catalog of sins.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear alongside `{{G415}}` in its single biblical context, painting a broader picture of moral corruption:
* `{{G801}}` **asýnetos** (unintelligent; by implication, wicked): This term, translated as **foolish** or **without understanding**, is listed directly before other vices in [[Romans 1:31]] and also appears in contexts describing a darkened heart [[Romans 1:21]].
* `{{G802}}` **asýnthetos** (properly, not agreed, i.e. treacherous to compacts): Translated as **covenant-breaker**, this word points to a lack of integrity and faithfulness in agreements and is found in the list in [[Romans 1:31]].
* `{{G794}}` **ástorgos** (hard-hearted towards kindred): Meaning **without natural affection**, this describes a coldness and lack of familial love. It appears with "unmerciful" in [[Romans 1:31]] and in a similar list of negative traits in [[2 Timothy 3:3]].
* `{{G786}}` **áspondos** (literally, without libation... i.e. (by implication) truceless): Defined as **implacable** or **truce-breaker**, this signifies an unwillingness to reconcile. It is listed in both [[Romans 1:31]] and [[2 Timothy 3:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G415}}` is understood through its singular, powerful context in scripture.
* **An Indicator of Spiritual Decline:** The term **unmerciful** appears in a passage that explicitly links such behavior to the rejection of God. When people refuse to glorify God, their foolish hearts become darkened [[Romans 1:21]], leading to a state characterized by the vices listed in [[Romans 1:31]].
* **Breakdown of Covenant and Relationship:** Being **unmerciful** `{{G415}}` is listed alongside being a **covenantbreaker** `{{G802}}`, **without natural affection** `{{G794}}`, and **implacable** `{{G786}}`. This grouping suggests that a merciless spirit is fundamentally opposed to faithful relationships.
* **Characteristic of a Depraved Mind:** The state of being **unmerciful** is presented as a defining feature of a mind that has been given over to depravity. It is not an isolated flaw but part of a complete moral corruption that results from turning away from divine truth.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G415}}` **aneleḗmōn** is a highly specific term whose meaning is amplified by its sole context. While it appears only once, its placement in [[Romans 1:31]] as part of a list of severe moral failings marks it as a significant indicator of a heart turned from God. It illustrates that being **unmerciful** is not merely a lack of pity, but a trait deeply connected to faithlessness, relational breakdown, and a depraved spiritual condition.
TRV