### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ápsychos**, represented by `{{G895}}`, means **lifeless** or inanimate. The word is formed from a negative particle and the word for "life." It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in scripture, where it is used to describe mechanical or inanimate objects.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G895}}` is in [[1 Corinthians 14:7]], where it serves as part of an analogy about clarity. The verse points out that even things **without life** `{{G895}}`, such as a **pipe** `{{G836}}` or a **harp** `{{G2788}}`, must **give** `{{G1325}}` a **distinction** `{{G1293}}` in their **sounds** `{{G5353}}`. Without this clarity, it is impossible to **know** `{{G1097}}` what is being **piped** `{{G832}}` or **harped** `{{G2789}}`. The term sets up a comparison to illustrate that communication must be intelligible to be meaningful.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify its meaning:
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (to give): This word is used for how an instrument will **give** sound and **give** a distinction [[1 Corinthians 14:7]]. It is also used in a much wider sense, such as when God **gave** his only Son [[John 3:16]].
* `{{G1293}}` **diastolḗ** (difference, distinction): This term is central to the analogy. A **distinction** in sounds is necessary for understanding [[1 Corinthians 14:7]]. It is also used to state that there is no **difference** between the Jew and the Greek [[Romans 10:12]].
* `{{G5456}}` **phōnḗ** (sound, voice): This refers to the **sound** produced by the lifeless instruments [[1 Corinthians 14:7]]. Elsewhere, it is used for the **voice** from heaven [[Revelation 14:2]] or the **voice** of the Lord himself [[1 Thessalonians 4:16]].
* `{{G1097}}` **ginṓskō** (to "know"): The purpose of distinct sounds is so that a message can be **known** [[1 Corinthians 14:7]]. This word carries significant weight, as in the statement that to **know** God is eternal life [[John 17:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G895}}` comes entirely from the argument it supports. It illustrates the principle that communication requires clarity to be effective.
* **The Principle of Intelligibility:** By using the example of things **without life**, the text establishes a baseline for communication. If even an inanimate **harp** `{{G2788}}` must make a distinct sound to be understood, how much more so should purposeful speech be clear.
* **Meaning Requires Distinction:** The use of `{{G895}}` is tied directly to the need for **distinction** `{{G1293}}`. A sound without distinction is meaningless noise, whether it comes from a **pipe** `{{G836}}` or a person. The goal is for the message to be **known** `{{G1097}}`.
* **Purposeful Sound:** The analogy demonstrates that sound must have a purpose. The function of the instruments is to produce a melody that can be **known** or recognized. This implies that all expression should be aimed at building understanding.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G895}}` is a simple adjective for **lifeless** that is used once to make a profound point. Its appearance in [[1 Corinthians 14:7]] anchors a crucial argument about the necessity of clarity in communication. By referencing inanimate instruments like the **pipe** and **harp**, the text shows that without a clear **distinction** `{{G1293}}`, no message can be truly **known** `{{G1097}}`. This single use demonstrates how even a basic descriptive word can serve a vital role in building a significant theological principle.
TRV