from Α (as a negative particle) and a derivative of σαλεύω; unshaken, i.e. (by implication) immovable (figuratively):--which cannot be moved, unmovable.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word ἀσάλευτος (asáleutos), Strong's number `{{G761}}`, is a compound adjective derived from the privative alpha (α-), indicating negation, and a derivative of the verb σαλεύω (saléō, `{{G4531}}`), meaning "to shake," "to agitate," or "to cause to waver." Therefore, ἀσάλευτος literally means "unshaken." Its semantic range extends to "unmovable," "firm," "stable," and "steadfast." The term conveys an inherent quality of stability, suggesting not merely resistance to external forces that might cause shaking, but an intrinsic nature that renders it immune to being moved or disturbed. This immovability can be understood both literally, in a physical sense, and figuratively, referring to spiritual, moral, or existential stability.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἀσάλευτος appears in two distinct contexts within the New Testament:
1. **[[Acts 27:41]]**: "But falling into a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the forepart stuck fast, and remained **unmovable** (ἀσάλευτος), but the stern was broken by the violence of the waves."
* Here, ἀσάλευτος is used in a literal, physical sense. It describes the bow of the ship becoming firmly lodged and unable to be moved from its position on the seabed, despite the violent forces of the waves acting upon the rest of the vessel. This usage underscores the raw, literal meaning of "unshaken" or "immovable."
2. **[[Hebrews 12:28]]**: "Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be **shaken** (ἀσάλευτον), let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear."
* This is theologically the more significant occurrence. In this passage, ἀσάλευτος describes the nature of the "kingdom" that believers are receiving. The context is a powerful contrast between the Old Covenant, characterized by things that can be shaken (like Mount Sinai, [[Hebrews 12:18-21]], and ultimately the heavens and earth, [[Hebrews 12:26-27]]), and the New Covenant, which ushers in an eternal, **unshakable** reality. The kingdom of God is presented as fundamentally stable, secure, and immune to any force that might threaten its existence or diminish its power. It is a spiritual reality grounded in God's unchangeable nature.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding ἀσάλευτος is enhanced by considering related Greek terms and theological concepts:
* **σαλεύω (saléō, `{{G4531}}`)**: The root verb, meaning "to shake," "to agitate," or "to cause to waver." The negative prefix in ἀσάλευτος directly negates this action, highlighting the absence of shaking.
* **ἀκλινής (aklinēs, `{{G189}}`)**: "Unwavering," "steadfast," often used to describe faith or hope (e.g., [[Hebrews 10:23]]). It shares the concept of stability, particularly in conviction.
* **ἑδραῖος (hedraios, `{{G1476}}`)**: "Firm," "steadfast," "immovable," often used for a person's resolve or a foundation (e.g., [[1 Corinthians 15:58]]).
* **στερεός (stereos, `{{G4731}}`)**: "Solid," "firm," "strong," "stable."
* **ἀμετακίνητος (ametakinētos, `{{G277}}`)**: "Immovable," "unalterable," similar in meaning, often used for spiritual steadfastness (e.g., [[1 Corinthians 15:58]]).
* **Concepts**: The immutability of God, divine sovereignty, the permanence of God's promises, the security of salvation, the eternal nature of the new creation, and the steadfastness required of believers.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἀσάλευτος is most profoundly revealed in [[Hebrews 12:28]]. It underscores the absolute security and permanence of God's kingdom, contrasting sharply with the transient and perishable nature of all earthly things, and even the physical heavens and earth, which are destined to be shaken and removed ([[Hebrews 12:26-27]]).
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Unchangeableness**: The fact that the kingdom is ἀσάλευτος speaks directly to the unchangeable character of God Himself. What God establishes cannot be undone or overthrown. It is a testament to His ultimate power and sovereignty, which ensures the stability and endurance of His reign.
2. **Security for Believers**: For those who "are receiving" this kingdom, ἀσάλευτος offers profound assurance and hope. In a world characterized by uncertainty, change, and upheaval, believers possess an inheritance that is utterly secure and beyond the reach of any destructive force. This security forms the basis for confident worship and service.
3. **Contrast with the Old Covenant**: The unshakable kingdom highlights the superiority of the New Covenant over the Old. The Old Covenant, with its earthly sanctuary and physical manifestations, was a shadow of the true, eternal realities now revealed in Christ. The New Covenant brings access to a spiritual kingdom that is inherently stable and permanent, unlike the temporary structures and ceremonies of the past.
4. **Foundation for Reverent Worship**: The knowledge that we serve and receive an ἀσάλευτος kingdom should inspire "reverence and godly fear" ([[Hebrews 12:28]]). Our worship is not directed towards a temporary deity or a fading empire, but to the eternal, unassailable King and His everlasting dominion.
### Summary
The Greek word ἀσάλευτος (asáleutos, `{{G761}}`) signifies that which is "unshaken" or "unmovable." While it can describe physical immovability, as seen in [[Acts 27:41]] concerning a ship's bow, its primary theological weight is found in [[Hebrews 12:28]]. Here, it powerfully describes the nature of the Kingdom of God as an "unshakable" reality. This term highlights the absolute security, permanence, and divine stability of God's reign, standing in stark contrast to all that is temporal and subject to change. It underscores God's unchangeable character and sovereignty, providing profound assurance for believers in their secure inheritance within His eternal dominion, and calling them to worship Him with appropriate reverence and godly fear.
TRV