### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sklērokardía**, represented by `{{G4641}}`, defines **hard-heartedness** and a destitution of spiritual perception. It appears 5 times across 3 unique verses. Derived from a compound of σκληρός (sklēros) and καρδία (kardia), this term specifically points to a hardened spiritual state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4641}}` is used in two key contexts. First, Jesus addresses the issue of divorce, explaining that `{{G3475}}` Moses permitted it because of the **hardness of heart** of the people ([[Matthew 19:8]], [[Mark 10:5]]). This was a concession to their spiritual state, not a reflection of God's original intent from the **beginning** `{{G746}}` [[Matthew 19:8]]. Second, the term is used to describe the disciples' unbelief. After his resurrection, `{{G2424}}` Jesus upbraided the **eleven** `{{G1733}}` for their **hardness of heart** because they did not **believe** `{{G4100}}` those who had seen him risen [[Mark 16:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words help clarify the meaning and consequences of `{{G4641}}`:
* `{{G570}}` **apistía** (unbelief): This term is directly linked with hardness of heart, describing a state of faithlessness or disbelief. The disciples were upbraided for their **unbelief** and **hardness of heart** [[Mark 16:14]].
* `{{G4100}}` **pisteúō** (to have faith): As the opposite of unbelief, this word highlights what is lacking in a hardened heart. The disciples' condition was characterized by their failure to **believe** eyewitnesses of the resurrection [[Mark 16:14]].
* `{{G1785}}` **entolḗ** (commandment, precept): This word shows how hardness of heart can affect divine instructions. Because of their hard-heartedness, Moses **wrote** `{{G1125}}` a **precept** allowing for divorce [[Mark 10:5]].
* `{{G2010}}` **epitrépō** (suffer, permit): This word describes the action taken in response to hardness of heart. Moses **suffered** or permitted the people to put away their wives due to their condition [[Matthew 19:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4641}}` is significant, highlighting a critical spiritual condition.
* **Obstruction to God's Standard:** Hardness of heart is presented as a reason for deviation from God's original design. In the case of marriage, it led `{{G3475}}` Moses to **suffer** `{{G2010}}` the people to **put away** `{{G630}}` their wives, a provision that was not part of the plan from the **beginning** `{{G746}}` [[Matthew 19:8]].
* **Spiritual Insensitivity:** The term describes a state of being closed to spiritual truth. The disciples' **hardness of heart** was demonstrated by their refusal to **believe** the testimony of those who had seen the risen `{{G1453}}` `{{G2424}}` Jesus, leading him to **upbraid** `{{G3679}}` them [[Mark 16:14]]. This aligns with the definition of being destitute of spiritual perception.
* **A Provocation for Divine Action:** The condition of a hard heart prompts a response. It was the reason Moses **wrote** `{{G1125}}` a specific **precept** `{{G1785}}` [[Mark 10:5]], and it was the cause for Jesus's direct rebuke of his closest followers [[Mark 16:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4641}}` is more than just stubbornness; it is a profound spiritual condition of **hard-heartedness**. It is used to explain why a concession was made in the law of `{{G3475}}` Moses regarding divorce and to describe the disciples' own failure to **believe** `{{G4100}}` in the resurrection of Jesus. The term illustrates a state of being spiritually closed off, unable to perceive or accept divine truth, which stands in direct opposition to a heart of faith and obedience.
TRV