from Α (as a negative particle) and νοιέω; not to know (through lack of information or intelligence); by implication, to ignore (through disinclination):--(be) ignorant(-ly), not know, not understand, unknown.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **agnoéō**, represented by `{{G50}}`, means **not to know** or to **ignore**. Its definition, derived from a negative particle and the verb "to know," highlights a state of being without information or intelligence. It appears **25 times** across **21 unique verses** in Scripture, often used to describe a lack of spiritual understanding.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Bible, `{{G50}}` is used in several distinct ways. The Apostle Paul frequently employs the phrase "I would not have you to be **ignorant**" to introduce critical theological truths to the believers concerning spiritual gifts [[1 Corinthians 12:1]], the resurrection of the dead [[1 Thessalonians 4:13]], and God's plan for Israel [[Romans 11:25]]. The word also describes the condition of those who act without full knowledge, such as the rulers who condemned Jesus because they **knew** him **not** [[Acts 13:27]], or Paul himself, who acted **ignorantly** in unbelief before his conversion [[1 Timothy 1:13]]. In Athens, Paul encountered an altar to an "UNKNOWN God," whom the people **ignorantly** worshipped [[Acts 17:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G50}}`:
* `{{G1097}}` **ginṓskō** (to "know" (absolutely)): This is the direct counterpart to being ignorant. Paul uses it when speaking to those who **know** the law, contrasting them with those who might be ignorant of its spiritual implications [[Romans 7:1]].
* `{{G57}}` **ágnōstos** (unknown): This adjective is a direct derivative and describes the object of ignorant worship. The Athenians worshipped an **unknown** God, whom Paul came to declare to them [[Acts 17:23]].
* `{{G570}}` **apistía** (unbelief): This word is explicitly linked to ignorant actions. Paul explains he obtained mercy because he was a blasphemer and persecutor **ignorantly** in **unbelief** [[1 Timothy 1:13]].
* `{{G4457}}` **pṓrōsis** (blindness, hardness): This is presented as a cause of ignorance. Paul warns the Romans not to be **ignorant** of the mystery that a partial **blindness** has happened to Israel [[Romans 11:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G50}}` is significant, distinguishing between different states of unknowing.
* **A Condition for Mercy:** Ignorance can be a mitigating factor in God's judgment. The high priest is able to have compassion on the **ignorant** because he himself is subject to `{{G769}}` infirmity [[Hebrews 5:2]]. Paul's own testimony shows that he obtained `{{G1653}}` mercy for his past sins because he did them **ignorantly** [[1 Timothy 1:13]].
* **Spiritual Deficit:** To be ignorant of God's ways is a dangerous spiritual state. Israel, being **ignorant** of God's righteousness, sought to establish their own and did not submit to God's [[Romans 10:3]]. Those who do not understand are compared to natural `{{G249}}` brute `{{G2226}}` beasts that perish [[2 Peter 2:12]].
* **A Call to Understanding:** The repeated apostolic plea, "I would not have you to be **ignorant**," functions as a command for believers to actively seek and embrace divine truth, moving from a state of not knowing to one of full assurance and `{{G1680}}` hope.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G50}}` does not simply mean a lack of data. It describes a spectrum of spiritual awareness, from an unintentional lack of information to a willful disregard for divine truth. It is a critical concept for understanding sin, mercy, and the Christian's responsibility to grow in knowledge. The use of this word underscores the importance of moving beyond ignorance to a full and saving knowledge of God's character, plans, and righteousness.
TRV