### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anōphelḗs**, represented by `{{G512}}`, means **useless or unprofitable**. Derived from a negative particle combined with a word for "useful," it directly signifies inutility. It appears only **2 times** in **2 verses** of scripture, but its use in both cases carries significant weight regarding what is considered spiritually effective versus ineffective.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{G512}}` is used in two distinct contexts to define what lacks value. In [[Hebrews 7:18]], it is applied to the Mosaic Law, describing "a disannulling of the commandment going before" due to its "weakness and **unprofitableness**." This indicates the law's inability to bring about perfection. In [[Titus 3:9]], the term is used as a warning against engaging in certain behaviors, specifically "foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law," which are condemned as **unprofitable** and vain.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which something is deemed unprofitable:
* `{{G772}}` **asthenḗs** (strengthless): This word is paired directly with `{{G512}}` in [[Hebrews 7:18]] to explain why the former commandment is set aside, citing its **weakness** and unprofitableness.
* `{{G115}}` **athétēsis** (cancellation): This is the consequence of the law's unprofitableness, resulting in its **disannulling** [[Hebrews 7:18]].
* `{{G3152}}` **mátaios** (empty): In [[Titus 3:9]], that which is unprofitable is also described as **vain**, highlighting its lack of substance or purpose.
* `{{G3474}}` **mōrós** (dull or stupid): This adjective qualifies the types of disputes to be avoided in [[Titus 3:9]], labeling them as **foolish** and therefore unprofitable.
* `{{G4026}}` **periḯstēmi** (to keep away from): This is the command given in response to unprofitable things, instructing believers to **avoid** or **shun** them [[Titus 3:9]].
* `{{G2214}}` **zḗtēsis** (a dispute or its theme): This term for **question** is used to describe the debates that are labeled as unprofitable and foolish in [[Titus 3:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G512}}` centers on distinguishing between valuable and useless spiritual and religious activities.
* **The Insufficiency of the Law:** The term's use in Hebrews establishes that the former commandment was **unprofitable** in its capacity to save, not because it was evil, but because it was inherently **weak** `{{G772}}` and preparatory in nature [[Hebrews 7:18]]. It could not accomplish what the new covenant in Christ would.
* **The Futility of Divisive Disputes:** The instruction in [[Titus 3:9]] is a practical command to maintain church unity and focus on productive faith. Engaging in **foolish** `{{G3474}}` questions and contentions is **unprofitable** because it generates strife rather than godly edification.
### Summary
In summary, **anōphelḗs** `{{G512}}` serves as a sharp qualifier, marking a clear line between what has spiritual utility and what does not. Though used rarely, it decisively frames both the Old Covenant law as insufficient for salvation and certain theological arguments as being empty and detrimental to the faith. The word acts as a critical reminder to focus on that which is spiritually substantial and to avoid that which is merely weak, vain, or divisive.
TRV