### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **árrhētos**, represented by `{{G731}}`, is defined as **unsaid** or, by implication, **inexpressible** and **unspeakable**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single usage highly significant. The term denotes that which cannot or is not permitted to be articulated in human language.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{G731}}` is in [[2 Corinthians 12:4]]. In this passage, an individual describes being "caught up `{{G726}}` into `{{G1519}}` paradise `{{G3857}}`." There, he **heard** `{{G191}}` **unspeakable** `{{G731}}` words `{{G4487}}`. The text immediately clarifies this experience by stating that it is not **lawful** `{{G1832}}` for a **man** `{{G444}}` to **utter** `{{G2980}}` these words. This context establishes that the words were both beyond the capacity of human expression and divinely forbidden to be repeated.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context illuminate the meaning of **árrhētos**:
* `{{G4487}}` **rhēma** (an utterance): This refers to the "words" that were heard but could not be spoken. It signifies that which is communicated, such as the principle that a **man** shall not live by bread alone, but by every **word** that proceedeth out of the mouth of God [[Matthew 4:4]].
* `{{G191}}` **akoúō** (to hear): This is the action of receiving the **unspeakable** words. While some things are not to be spoken, scripture emphasizes the importance of being swift **to hear** `{{G191}}` what God communicates [[James 1:19]].
* `{{G1832}}` **éxesti** (it is right): This word establishes the divine prohibition against speaking the words from paradise. It is used elsewhere to discuss what is permissible, such as when it is noted that while all things may be **lawful**, not all things are expedient [[1 Corinthians 6:12]].
* `{{G2980}}` **laléō** (to talk, i.e. utter words): As the forbidden action, this word is the direct counterpart to the experience. It is a common term for speaking, such as when Jesus **spake** unto his disciples [[Matthew 28:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G731}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use.
* **Divine Inexpressibility:** The concept highlights a boundary between the divine realm and human understanding. The words **heard** `{{G191}}` in **paradise** `{{G3857}}` were real, yet could not be translated into human speech, similar to how the things God has prepared for those who love Him are beyond what a **man** `{{G444}}` has seen or **heard** [[1 Corinthians 2:9]].
* **Sacred Prohibition:** The term's meaning is tied to the idea that some revelations are not **lawful** `{{G1832}}` to be shared. It suggests that certain knowledge is sacred and protected by divine authority, reserved for a specific experience and not for general human discourse.
* **The Nature of Heavenly Revelation:** The use of **árrhētos** to describe words from **paradise** implies that heavenly realities transcend the limits of earthly communication. The experience was one of **hearing** `{{G191}}`, but what was heard was of a nature that could not be uttered `{{G2980}}` by a **man** `{{G444}}`.
### Summary
In summary, **árrhētos** `{{G731}}` is a rare but profound term. Its singular use defines something as **unspeakable**, not only because it is inexpressible in human terms but also because it is divinely forbidden to be repeated. This word marks the intersection of divine revelation and human limitation, illustrating that some truths experienced in God's presence are so sacred they cannot be articulated by a **man** `{{G444}}` on earth.
TRV