adverb from a compound of Α (as a negative particle) and a presumed derivative of a presumed compound of πρόσωπον and λαμβάνω (compare προσωπολήπτης); in a way not accepting the person, i.e. impartially:--without respect of persons.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb ἀπροσωπολήπτως (aprosōpolḗptōs, `{{G678}}`) is a powerful compound word that encapsulates a profound theological concept. Etymologically, it is formed from the privative alpha (α-), negating the idea of "respect of persons" or "partiality." The core components are πρόσωπον (prosōpon, `{{G4383}}`), meaning "face" or "person," and λαμβάνω (lambanō, `{{G2983}}`), meaning "to take" or "to receive." Thus, the literal sense is "not taking a face" or "not receiving a person."
Semantically, this translates to "impartially," "without favoritism," or "without respect of persons." It denotes a state or manner of judging, acting, or relating that is entirely free from prejudice, bias, or consideration of external status, wealth, race, gender, or any other superficial human distinction. It stands in stark opposition to the concept of partiality (προσωπολημψία, `{{G4382}}`), which involves showing favor based on who a person is rather than on their merits or actions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The adverb ἀπροσωπολήπτως (aprosōpolḗptōs, `{{G678}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, but its singular occurrence carries immense weight and theological significance within its context.
* **[[1 Peter 1:17]]**: "And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially (ἀπροσωπολήπτως) according to each one’s deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile."
In this verse, Peter exhorts believers to live in reverent fear, grounding this admonition in the character of God. The phrase "who judges impartially" (ἀπροσωπολήπτως) is crucial. It reveals a fundamental attribute of the Father: He does not show favoritism in His judgment. His assessment is based solely on the "deeds" (ἔργα) of individuals, not on their social standing, religious background, or any other external factor. This divine impartiality serves as a powerful motivation for believers to live lives of holiness and obedience, knowing that their actions will be justly evaluated by a God who is perfectly fair. The context of "exile" (παροικία) further emphasizes the temporary nature of earthly life and the ultimate accountability before a just God.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept expressed by ἀπροσωπολήπτως (aprosōpolḗptōs, `{{G678}}`) is deeply interwoven with several related terms and theological ideas in both the Old and New Testaments:
* **προσωπολημψία (prosōpolēmpsia, `{{G4382}}`)**: This noun means "respect of persons" or "partiality." It is the direct antonym of the concept conveyed by ἀπροσωπολήπτως. It appears in contexts condemning unjust judgment or favoritism (e.g., [[Romans 2:11]], [[Ephesians 6:9]], [[Colossians 3:25]], [[James 2:1]]).
* **προσωπολήπτης (prosōpolēptēs, `{{G4381}}`)**: This noun refers to "one who shows partiality" or a "respecter of persons." It is used to describe those who act with favoritism (e.g., [[Acts 10:34]]).
* **λαμβάνω (lambanō, `{{G2983}}`)** and **πρόσωπον (prosōpon, `{{G4383}}`)**: As the root components, these words highlight the literal action of "taking a face," which in Hebrew idiom (נָשָׂא פָנִים, nasa' panim, `{{H5375}}` `{{H6440}}`) meant to show favor or partiality, often in a negative sense, as in showing deference to someone's status rather than justice.
* **Old Testament Background**: The concept of God's impartiality is deeply rooted in the Old Testament. Passages like [[Deuteronomy 10:17]] ("For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God, who is not partial and takes no bribe") and [[2 Chronicles 19:7]] ("Now then, let the fear of the Lord be upon you. Be careful what you do, for there is no injustice with the Lord our God, no partiality, and no taking of bribes") explicitly state God's nature as one who does not show favoritism. This foundational truth is carried over and affirmed in the New Testament.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἀπροσωπολήπτως (aprosōpolḗptōs, `{{G678}}`) is profound and multifaceted:
1. **Divine Justice and Character**: First and foremost, this word profoundly describes the character of God. He is a God of absolute justice, whose judgments are pure and untainted by any form of bias. His impartiality ensures that every individual, regardless of their earthly standing, will be judged fairly according to their deeds. This attribute provides immense comfort to the oppressed and marginalized, knowing that God sees and judges righteously, while simultaneously calling the privileged to humility and accountability.
2. **Foundation for Christian Ethics**: Because God judges impartially, believers are called to reflect this divine attribute in their own lives and interactions. The New Testament consistently condemns partiality within the Christian community (e.g., [[James 2:1-9]]), emphasizing that love for neighbor and justice must extend to all without discrimination. This principle underpins the Christian call to social justice, equality, and treating all people with dignity and respect, as they are created in God's image.
3. **Motivation for Holy Living**: The knowledge that God judges impartially serves as a powerful impetus for believers to pursue holiness. There is no special favor for those who claim a particular status; judgment is based on "each one’s deeds." This truth underscores the seriousness of discipleship and the importance of living a life that honors God.
4. **Universal Accessibility of Salvation**: While the specific context of [[1 Peter 1:17]] relates to judgment, the broader theological concept of God's impartiality also underpins the universal offer of salvation. God does not show favoritism in calling people to Himself; salvation is available to all who believe, regardless of their background (cf. [[Acts 10:34-35]], [[Romans 2:11]], [[Galatians 3:28]]).
### Summary
The Greek adverb ἀπροσωπολήπτως (aprosōpolḗptōs, `{{G678}}`) signifies "impartially" or "without respect of persons." Its singular New Testament occurrence in [[1 Peter 1:17]] reveals a cornerstone of God's character: He judges all individuals justly, based on their deeds, and without any favoritism or bias. This divine impartiality, rooted in the Old Testament concept of God's unwavering fairness, serves as a foundational theological truth. It not only assures believers of God's perfect justice but also provides a compelling motivation for them to live lives of holiness and to reflect God's impartiality in their own relationships and actions, treating all people with dignity and equity.
TRV