adverb from a compound of Α (as a negative participle) and a presumed derivative of περισπάω; undistractedly, i.e. free from (domestic) solicitude:--without distraction.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aperispástōs**, represented by `{{G563}}`, is an adverb meaning **undistractedly**. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Derived from a negative participle and a word related to being pulled in different directions, it signifies a state of being free from worldly or domestic solicitude, enabling focused attention.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G563}}` is found in [[1 Corinthians 7:35]], where the Apostle Paul clarifies his instruction. He states he is speaking for the believers' own **profit** `{{G4851}}`, not to **cast** `{{G1911}}` a **snare** `{{G1029}}` upon them. The goal is to promote what is **comely** `{{G2158}}` and to help them **attend upon** `{{G2145}}` the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` **without distraction** `{{G563}}`. This context frames undivided devotion to God as a beneficial and honorable state, free from the entanglements of worldly anxieties.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context help clarify the meaning of `{{G563}}`:
* `{{G2145}}` **euprósedros** (attend upon): This describes the action that should be performed "without distraction." It means sitting well towards, or assiduous service, highlighting the posture of diligent devotion to the Lord.
* `{{G1029}}` **bróchos** (snare): This word provides a direct contrast to the freedom of undistracted devotion. Paul’s intention is not to set a trap or noose with his teaching, but to liberate believers from cares that would hinder them [[1 Corinthians 7:35]].
* `{{G2158}}` **euschḗmōn** (comely): This describes the character of an undistracted life. It means well-formed or decorous, suggesting that focused service to God is an honorable and noble pursuit [[1 Corinthians 7:35]].
* `{{G4851}}` **symphérō** (profit): Paul's counsel to live without distraction is for the believers' own advantage. It is presented as something that is expedient and conducive to their spiritual well-being [[1 Corinthians 7:35]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G563}}` is centered on the principle of single-minded devotion.
* **Undivided Focus:** The core concept is a call to serve the Lord with an unburdened and focused mind. It prioritizes the believer's relationship with God above cares that pull one's attention in multiple directions.
* **Freedom from Worldly Solicitude:** By contrasting this state with a **snare** `{{G1029}}`, the scripture warns that worldly anxieties can entangle and impede a believer's spiritual walk. Living **without distraction** `{{G563}}` is a form of spiritual freedom.
* **The Nature of True Service:** The term modifies the act to **attend upon** `{{G2145}}` the Lord, defining the quality of that service. True devotion is not merely performing duties, but doing so with a fully present and undistracted heart and mind.
### Summary
In summary, **aperispástōs** `{{G563}}` is a concise and powerful term that, while rare, encapsulates a significant biblical ideal. It champions a life of devotion to the Lord that is free from the distracting and ensnaring cares of the world. Its single appearance in [[1 Corinthians 7:35]] powerfully frames this state of undistractedness as honorable, profitable, and essential for assiduous service to God.
TRV