### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ápeiros**, represented by `{{G552}}`, means **inexperienced** or ignorant. Its base components signify a state of being without experience. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, where it is translated as **unskilful**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G552}}` is in [[Hebrews 5:13]], where it describes a specific type of spiritual immaturity. The text states that **every one** `{{G3956}}` who **useth** `{{G3348}}` **milk** `{{G1051}}` **is** `{{G2076}}` **unskilful** in the **word** `{{G3056}}` of **righteousness** `{{G1343}}`. The reason provided, introduced by the particle **for** `{{G1063}}`, is that such a person is a **babe** `{{G3516}}`. The word directly links the consumption of spiritual "milk" with a lack of skill in foundational Christian truths.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context clarify the meaning of `{{G552}}`:
* `{{G3516}}` **nḗpios** (babe): As the direct explanation for being **unskilful**, this term signifies an infant or, figuratively, an immature Christian [[Hebrews 5:13]].
* `{{G1051}}` **gála** (milk): This represents the elementary spiritual nourishment that the **unskilful** person partakes of, as opposed to the "strong meat" suitable for the mature [[Hebrews 5:13]].
* `{{G3056}}` **lógos** (word): This defines the area where skill is lacking. Being **unskilful** in the **word** points to an inability to properly handle or reason with divine doctrine [[Hebrews 5:13]].
* `{{G1343}}` **dikaiosýnē** (righteousness): This specifies the subject of the **word** that the immature believer is unskilled in, highlighting a lack of experience with the concept of Christian justification and equity [[Hebrews 5:13]].
* `{{G3348}}` **metéchō** (useth): This word, meaning to share or participate, describes the person's reliance on **milk**, framing their immaturity as a state of participation in elementary things [[Hebrews 5:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G552}}` is focused on the concept of spiritual growth.
* **A Marker of Immaturity:** The word's primary function is to identify a state of spiritual infancy. To be **unskilful** is to be like a **babe** `{{G3516}}` who has not moved on to maturity [[Hebrews 5:13]].
* **Inexperience with Core Doctrine:** Being **unskilful** is not a general ignorance, but a specific inexperience in the "word of righteousness" `{{G1343}}`. This points to a believer who has not yet grasped the deeper implications of justification and godly living.
* **The Contrast to Maturity:** The context of Hebrews uses the state of being **unskilful** `{{G552}}` to create a contrast with those who, by reason of use, are able to handle more substantial spiritual truths [[Hebrews 5:12-13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G552}}` provides a precise term for inexperience within a spiritual context. Though used only once, its meaning is powerfully defined in [[Hebrews 5:13]]. It characterizes a person who is **unskilful** because they remain a **babe** `{{G3516}}` subsisting on **milk** `{{G1051}}`, not yet able to comprehend the deeper matters of the **word** `{{G3056}}` of **righteousness** `{{G1343}}`. It serves as a key descriptor in the biblical call for believers to move beyond infancy toward spiritual maturity.
TRV