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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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