The Greek word anómōs, represented by G460, is an adverb that means to act lawlessly or without law. It is specifically defined as not being amenable to the Jewish law. Despite its precise meaning, it is a rare term, appearing only 2 times across 1 unique verse in the Bible.
The sole scriptural appearance of G460 is in Romans 2:12, where it is used to draw a critical distinction. The verse states that "as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law." This phrase establishes a parallel accountability for those who exist outside the Mosaic code, contrasting them with those who have sinned "in the law" G3551 and will be "judged by the law" G2919.
Several related words found in its immediate context help to define the scope of G460:
- G264 hamartánō (to sin): This word, meaning to err or miss the mark, is the action taken by those who are without law. The pairing shows that sin is a reality even for those who do not have the written law of Moses Romans 2:12.
- G3551 nómos (law): As the word for a prescriptive regulation, especially the law of Moses, this term stands in direct opposition to being without law. The entire structure of the verse hinges on the contrast between sinning with or without this law Romans 2:12.
- G622 apóllymi (to perish): This term means to be destroyed fully or to lose. It is the stated outcome for those who sin without law, confirming that accountability for sin does not require the presence of a formal legal code Romans 2:12.
The theological significance of G460 is centered on the nature of divine judgment and universal human accountability.
- Consequence Outside the Law: The primary point is that perishing G622 is the consequence of sinning G264, even for those who do so without law. This establishes that the law of Moses is not the only standard by which humanity is held accountable.
- Parallel Judgments: The argument in Romans 2:12 creates a parallel structure of justice. Those without law perish without law; those in the law are judged by the law. This implies that judgment is administered according to the light or standard a person has been given.
In summary, anómōs G460 is a specific term that, while used only once, is foundational to the argument for universal accountability in Romans. It clarifies that sinning without law still carries the grave consequence of perishing. The word is crucial for understanding that God's judgment is not limited to those under the Mosaic covenant but extends to all people, judging them righteously based on their deeds.
TRV