### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aperítmētos**, represented by `{{G564}}`, is a figurative term for **uncircumcised**. Its definition is derived from a negative particle combined with a word for circumcision, signifying a state of being "not circumcised." It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its single usage highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G564}}` is in [[Acts 7:51]], where Stephen rebukes his audience. He describes them as "stiffnecked and **uncircumcised** in heart and ears." This is not a comment on their physical state but a powerful accusation about their spiritual condition. By being figuratively **uncircumcised**, they are portrayed as spiritually closed off, unable to perceive God's truth with their hearts (their inner thoughts and feelings) and unwilling to listen with their ears. This condition is directly linked to their action of always resisting the Holy Ghost.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words from its only context in [[Acts 7:51]] help clarify the meaning of `{{G564}}`:
* `{{G4644}}` **sklērotráchēlos** (stiffnecked): Used immediately before `{{G564}}`, this term means **obstinate**. It establishes a tone of willful, stubborn rebellion against God.
* `{{G2588}}` **kardía** (heart): This refers to **the thoughts or feelings (mind)**. Being "uncircumcised in heart" therefore means having a mind that is spiritually hardened and unreceptive to God.
* `{{G3775}}` **oûs** (ear): This refers to **the ear (physically or mentally)**. The phrase "uncircumcised in... ears" points to a deliberate refusal to hear and obey God's message.
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (spirit): The object of the resistance from those with uncircumcised hearts and ears is the Holy **Ghost** (**pneûma**), highlighting that this internal state results in opposition to the divine.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G564}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use. It reframes the concept of circumcision from a physical sign to an internal spiritual reality.
* **Heart Condition:** `{{G564}}` illustrates that what matters is the state of the inner person. A heart that is closed off and feelings that are hardened against God are the marks of being spiritually "uncircumcised."
* **Willful Rebellion:** When used alongside "stiffnecked," the term signifies more than just spiritual ignorance; it describes an active and obstinate resistance to God's will.
* **Spiritual Deafness:** The concept of being "uncircumcised in... ears" is a metaphor for a profound spiritual deafness, where an individual refuses to listen to the guidance of the Holy Spirit [[Acts 7:51]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G564}}` is a rare but impactful term that defines a spiritual state of rebellion. Though it appears only once, its context in [[Acts 7:51]] provides a clear and severe picture of a heart and mind that are willfully closed to God. It transforms the physical idea of circumcision into a potent metaphor for one's internal posture, demonstrating that a hardened heart which resists the Holy Spirit is the true mark of being **uncircumcised**.
TRV