ἀχάριστος

ungrateful

Definition

The adjective ἀχάριστος means 'ungrateful' or 'unthankful,' describing someone who fails to acknowledge or reciprocate kindness received. In its two New Testament occurrences, it characterizes a person's moral disposition, specifically a lack of gratitude toward God and others. In Luke 6:35, it is used to describe those who are 'ungrateful' even as God shows kindness to all. In 2 Timothy 3:2, it appears in a list of vices marking people in the last days, emphasizing a self-centered, thankless attitude.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, both times in a moral and relational context. In Luke 6:35, Jesus uses it to describe the character of people in general, contrasting human ingratitude with God's graciousness. In 2 Timothy 3:2, Paul includes it in a vice list characterizing ungodly people of the last days, highlighting ingratitude as a symptom of a broader departure from God. Both uses underscore ingratitude as a fundamental moral failing.

Etymology

Derived from the alpha-privative ἀ- (meaning 'not' or 'without') combined with the root related to χάρις (charis, G5485), meaning 'grace,' 'favor,' or 'thanks.' Literally, it means 'without grace' or 'without thankfulness.' It is the opposite of εὐχάριστος (eucharistos, G2170), meaning 'thankful' or 'grateful.'

Semantic Range

Ingratitude is presented as a serious spiritual condition, revealing a heart alienated from God's grace. In Luke 6:35, it contrasts with God's character of kindness even to the ungrateful, highlighting divine mercy. In 2 Timothy 3:2, it is linked to end-times apostasy, showing that thanklessness is a root of broader rebellion. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by emphasizing that gratitude is not just politeness but a core response to God's grace.

In the Greco-Roman world, gratitude (χάρις) was a vital social virtue binding relationships through reciprocal favor. To be 'ungrateful' (ἀχάριστος) was a severe character flaw, breaking social and religious obligations. The biblical usage taps into this understanding but elevates it, framing ingratitude primarily as a failure toward God, the ultimate benefactor.

ἀσύνετος (asynetos, G801) — 'without understanding,' foolish, often implying moral insensitivity rather than just lack of thanks. κακός (kakos, G2556) — 'bad' or 'evil,' a broader term for moral wrong that can include ingratitude. ἀνόητος (anoētos, G453) — 'foolish' or 'unthinking,' lacking proper perception, which can lead to thanklessness.

Word Details

Scripture References