### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **agrámmatos**, represented by `{{G62}}`, means **unlearned**. Derived from the negative particle Α and γράμμα, it literally signifies being "unlettered" or "illiterate." This term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in scripture, yet its single usage provides a powerful statement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G62}}` is in Acts, where onlookers are observing the apostles Peter and John. When they saw the **boldness** `{{G3954}}` of the two men and **perceived** `{{G2638}}` that they were **unlearned** `{{G62}}` and **ignorant** `{{G2399}}` men, they **marvelled** `{{G2296}}`. The observation of their lack of formal education led the crowd to a specific conclusion: they **took knowledge** `{{G1921}}` of them, that they had **been** `{{G2258}}` **with** `{{G4862}}` **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` [[Acts 4:13]]. The term is used to create a stark contrast between the apostles' perceived human status and their divine empowerment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context clarify the meaning of being **unlearned** `{{G62}}`:
* `{{G2399}}` **idiṓtēs** (ignorant): Used alongside `{{G62}}` in [[Acts 4:13]], this word describes a "private person" or an "ignoramus." It emphasizes the apostles' lack of official standing or formal training. Paul also uses this term to describe himself as potentially **rude** in speech, but not in knowledge [[2 Corinthians 11:6]].
* `{{G3954}}` **parrhēsía** (boldness): This is the quality that the **unlearned** `{{G62}}` men displayed. Defined as "all out-spokenness" or "assurance," it highlights the confidence that baffled the observers [[Acts 4:13]]. The same confidence is encouraged for believers approaching God's throne [[Hebrews 4:16]].
* `{{G2296}}` **thaumázō** (marvelled): This word captures the crowd's reaction. It means "to wonder" or "admire" and shows the profound impact of the apostles' testimony, which defied their educational background [[Acts 4:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G62}}` is demonstrated in its single, impactful context.
* **Divine Empowerment Over Human Status:** The core lesson from the use of **agrámmatos** is that God's power is not dependent on a person's education or social standing. The observers in [[Acts 4:13]] connected the apostles' surprising **boldness** `{{G3954}}` directly to their time spent **with Jesus** `{{G2424}}`, not to any schooling.
* **A Different Kind of Knowledge:** The word **unlearned** `{{G62}}` refers to a lack of formal scribal training. However, the observers "took knowledge" (`epiginṓskō`, `{{G1921}}`) of the true source of their authority. This points to a deeper, spiritual knowledge that comes from a relationship with God, as seen when believers **knew** `{{G1921}}` the grace of God in truth [[Colossians 1:6]].
* **God's Choice of Instruments:** The description of Peter `{{G4074}}` and John `{{G2491}}` as **unlearned** `{{G62}}` and **ignorant** `{{G2399}}` men [[Acts 4:13]] exemplifies a consistent biblical theme. God often chooses those the world might consider unqualified to carry out His work, so that the power is clearly seen to be from Him and not from man [[1 Corinthians 2:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G62}}` **agrámmatos**, though rare, is a doctrinally significant word. Its single use to describe Peter and John as **unlearned** powerfully illustrates that the effectiveness of a believer's witness comes not from worldly credentials but from a genuine connection with Jesus Christ. The term serves as a permanent reminder that God's strength is made perfect in what the world perceives as weakness.
TRV