### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apistéō**, represented by `{{G569}}`, means **to be unbelieving** or to disbelieve. It appears 8 times across 7 unique verses in the Bible. The term specifically denotes an active refusal to believe or a failure to accept something as true, particularly in response to divine revelation or miraculous events.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G569}}` is frequently used to describe the disciples' reaction to the news of Christ's resurrection. When they first heard that Jesus was alive, they **believed not** [[Mark 16:11]]. Their report was dismissed as "idle tales{G3026}," and the others **believed them not** [[Luke 24:11]]. Even when faced with the risen Christ, they "believed not{G569} for{G575} joy{G5479}, and{G2532} wondered{G2296}" [[Luke 24:41]]. The term also describes the split response to apostolic preaching, where some believed the message while others **believed not** [[Acts 28:24]]. The ultimate consequence of this disbelief is stated in [[Mark 16:16]], where he that "believeth not{G569} shall be damned{G2632}."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of belief and unbelief:
* `{{G4100}}` **pisteúō** (to have faith): As the direct opposite of `{{G569}}`, this word is central to the Christian message. The contrast is starkly presented in [[Mark 16:16]], where salvation is linked to one who **believeth** `{{G4100}}`, while condemnation is for one who **believeth not** `{{G569}}`.
* `{{G570}}` **apistía** (unbelief): This is the noun form, signifying the state of faithlessness. Paul uses it in [[Romans 3:3]] to ask if the **unbelief** of some could negate God's faithfulness, linking the act of disbelieving `{{G569}}` with the condition of **unbelief**.
* `{{G4103}}` **pistós** (faithful): This adjective describes God's trustworthy nature, which remains constant regardless of human doubt. Even if "we believe not{G569}," God "abideth{G3306} **faithful**{G4103}" [[2 Timothy 2:13]].
* `{{G2632}}` **katakrínō** (to condemn): This word reveals the consequence of disbelief. It means to sentence or judge against, and it is the outcome for the one who believes not in [[Mark 16:16]], who "shall be **damned**."
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G569}}` is significant, highlighting the critical nature of belief.
* **A Condition for Judgment:** The act of not believing is directly tied to spiritual condemnation. [[Mark 16:16]] establishes a clear dividing line where disbelief, not just sinful actions, results in being damned.
* **Human Frailty vs. Divine Power:** The use of `{{G569}}` to describe the disciples' reaction to the resurrection underscores the difficulty the human mind has in accepting the supernatural, even among those closest to Jesus ([[Luke 24:11]], [[Mark 16:11]]).
* **God's Unchanging Faithfulness:** The most profound theological point is that human unbelief cannot alter the nature or promises of God. Though some may **not believe** `{{G569}}`, their unbelief does not nullify God's faithfulness [[Romans 3:3]]. God's character is absolute, for as [[2 Timothy 2:13]] states, "he cannot{G3756}{G1410} deny{G720} himself{G1438}."
### Summary
In summary, `{{G569}}` is more than just doubt; it is an active state of disbelief with eternal consequences. Its usage in Scripture frames the essential choice between faith and unbelief, particularly in response to the core truths of the gospel like the resurrection. While human belief is presented as a pivotal decision, **apistéō** ultimately serves to elevate the immutable faithfulness of God, whose integrity remains perfect even in the face of our disbelief.
TRV