### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word ἀγνόημα (agnóēma) `{{G51}}` is derived from the verb ἀγνοέω (agnoeō) `{{G50}}`, which means "to be ignorant of," "not to know," or "to misunderstand." Consequently, ἀγνόημα refers to an act or state that arises from such ignorance or lack of knowledge. It denotes an "error" or "shortcoming" that is committed unintentionally or inadvertently, rather than as a deliberate, willful transgression. The essential nuance of ἀγνόημα lies in the absence of conscious intent or full awareness concerning the violation. This distinguishes it from other terms for sin that imply a conscious, purposeful deviation from God's law.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἀγνόημα (agnóēma) `{{G51}}` appears only once in the New Testament, in [[Hebrews 9:7]]. In this passage, it is used in the context of the high priest's annual entry into the Most Holy Place on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). The text states that the high priest offers blood "for himself and for the ἀγνόηματα (agnóēmata) of the people." The use of the plural form emphasizes the collective nature and frequency of such unintentional errors within the community. The context of the Day of Atonement is crucial, as this ritual was specifically ordained in the Mosaic Law to atone for sins committed unwittingly or inadvertently by the people, distinct from deliberate, "high-handed" sins for which no sacrifice was provided ([[Numbers 15:30-31]]). Thus, the use of ἀγνόημα in Hebrews accurately reflects the Old Testament understanding of sins requiring atonement even when committed without full knowledge or intent, underscoring the pervasive nature of sin and the necessity of divine provision for reconciliation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation is to the root verb ἀγνοέω (agnoeō) `{{G50}}`, meaning "to be ignorant of" or "not to know," from which ἀγνόημα is derived. This highlights that ἀγνόημα is an action stemming from a state of ignorance.
In relation to other Greek terms for sin, ἀγνόημα stands apart by its emphasis on unintentionality:
* ἁμαρτία (hamartia) `{{G266}}`: A broad term for sin, meaning "missing the mark," which can encompass both intentional and unintentional transgressions.
* παράπτωμα (paraptōma) `{{G3900}}`: Signifies a "false step" or "trespass," often implying a deviation from a correct path.
* παράβασις (parabasis) `{{G3847}}`: Refers to a "transgression," specifically a "stepping across" a boundary or law, often implying a more deliberate violation.
In the Old Testament, the Hebrew term שְׁגָגָה (sh'gāgāh) `{{H7684}}` (error, inadvertence) closely parallels ἀγνόημα. This term is consistently used in the Levitical law to describe sins committed "unwittingly" or "unintentionally," for which specific sin offerings were prescribed (e.g., [[Leviticus 4:2]], [[Numbers 15:27-29]]). The Septuagint (LXX) sometimes translates שְׁגָגָה with ἀγνοέω or related terms, reinforcing the conceptual link.
### Theological Significance
The existence and use of ἀγνόημα in the biblical text, particularly its unique appearance in [[Hebrews 9:7]], reveal a profound theological truth: not all transgressions against God are committed with full knowledge and malicious intent. Even errors stemming from ignorance, misunderstanding, or inadvertence require atonement. This underscores the absolute holiness of God and the pervasive nature of sin, which affects humanity even in its unconscious failings.
The Old Testament sacrificial system, particularly the Day of Atonement, provided a means for dealing with these "unintentional sins," demonstrating God's mercy and His provision for reconciliation even for those who err without full awareness of their transgression. In the New Covenant, the sacrifice of Christ is presented as the ultimate and perfect atonement, not only for deliberate sins but also for all forms of human failing, including ἀγνόηματα. His blood covers the full spectrum of human sinfulness, providing complete cleansing and forgiveness, thereby fulfilling and surpassing the temporary and limited provisions of the Old Covenant ([[Hebrews 9:11-14]]). This concept serves as a crucial reminder that human beings are not always fully aware of the extent of their transgressions against a holy God, and thus, divine grace is necessary for all aspects of human sinfulness.
### Summary
ἀγνόημα (agnóēma) `{{G51}}` is a specific Greek term denoting an "error" or "shortcoming" committed out of ignorance or inadvertence. Its singular New Testament occurrence in [[Hebrews 9:7]] is highly significant, reflecting the Old Testament concept of unintentional sins (e.g., שְׁγָגָה `{{H7684}}`) that required atonement on the Day of Atonement. Theologically, ἀγνόημα highlights that even unintentional failings necessitate divine provision for forgiveness, emphasizing God's absolute holiness and the comprehensive efficacy of Christ's sacrifice in covering the entirety of human sinfulness.
TRV