### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **agnōsía**, represented by `{{G56}}`, denotes **ignorance** or a state of "not the knowledge." Derived from Α (as a negative particle) and γνῶσις, it describes a state of being without knowledge. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G56}}` highlights a condition that has moral and spiritual implications. In [[1 Corinthians 15:34]], it is used as "not the knowledge" to describe some who lack a proper understanding of God `{{G2316}}`, a state which is linked to sin `{{G264}}` and should be a cause for shame `{{G1791}}`. In [[1 Peter 2:15]], the word describes the **ignorance** of foolish men `{{G444}}`, which believers are instructed to "put to silence" `{{G5392}}` through the practice of well doing `{{G15}}`, according to the will `{{G2307}}` of God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify the context and meaning of `{{G56}}`:
* `{{G878}}` **áphrōn** (foolish): This word, defined as mindless or stupid, is directly linked to ignorance. It describes the character of the men whose **ignorance** is to be silenced by good works [[1 Peter 2:15]].
* `{{G15}}` **agathopoiéō** (well doing): Presented as the direct countermeasure to ignorance, this term means to be a well-doer. It is by **well doing** that the ignorance of foolish men is silenced [[1 Peter 2:15]].
* `{{G1594}}` **eknḗphō** (awake): This command, meaning to rouse oneself from a stupor, is the required action for those who have "not the knowledge" `{{G56}}` of God [[1 Corinthians 15:34]].
* `{{G1791}}` **entropḗ** (shame): This term for confusion or shame is the intended result of the apostle's speech to those who live in **ignorance** of God [[1 Corinthians 15:34]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G56}}` centers on the responsibility of a believer regarding knowledge and conduct.
* **A Counterable Condition:** The **ignorance** described in scripture is not presented as a permanent state. It can be "put to silence" `{{G5392}}` by a believer's righteous actions and "well doing" `{{G15}}`, which is the will of God [[1 Peter 2:15]].
* **Ignorance of God:** A specific form of `{{G56}}` is "not the knowledge of God" [[1 Corinthians 15:34]]. This is treated as a serious spiritual deficit, linked with sin `{{G264}}` and contrasted with the command to "awake to righteousness" `{{G1346}}`.
* **A Source of Shame:** To be without the knowledge `{{G56}}` of God is a state that should produce **shame** `{{G1791}}` among believers, prompting a return to righteous living [[1 Corinthians 15:34]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G56}}` is more than a simple absence of information; it is a spiritual condition with significant consequences. Whether it is the **ignorance** of foolish men that is refuted by a believer's good conduct [[1 Peter 2:15]] or the state of "not the knowledge" of God that must be awakened from [[1 Corinthians 15:34]], `agnōsía` is portrayed as a state contrary to the will of God that must be actively addressed through righteous living and a true knowledge of Him.
TRV