ἄκρατος

unmixed, undiluted

Definition

The adjective ἄκρατος (akratos) means 'unmixed' or 'undiluted,' describing something in its pure, unadulterated state. In the ancient world, it was commonly used for wine that had not been mixed with water. In the New Testament, its sole occurrence is in Revelation 14:10, where it modifies 'the wine of the wrath of God,' symbolizing divine judgment in its full, undiluted potency. This usage emphasizes the intensity and purity of God's judgment, without mitigation or softening.

Biblical Usage

ἄκρατος is used only once in the New Testament, in Revelation 14:10. It appears in a vivid apocalyptic context describing the fate of those who worship the beast: they will drink 'the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out unmixed (ἄκρατος) into the cup of his anger.' Here, the word functions adjectivally to intensify the metaphor of God's wrath as a potent, undiluted drink of judgment.

Etymology

Derived from the alpha-privative ἀ- (a-), meaning 'not' or 'without,' combined with the verbal root κερ- (ker-), related to mixing (as in κεράννυμι, kerannymi, 'to mix'). Thus, ἄκρατος literally means 'not mixed' or 'unmixed.' It is a straightforward compound describing purity or lack of adulteration, particularly of liquids.

Semantic Range

Theologically, ἄκρατος is significant as it underscores the absolute and undiluted nature of God's final judgment in Revelation. Unlike human anger, which is often tempered, the imagery of 'unmixed wine' portrays divine wrath as pure, full-strength, and inescapable for those opposed to God. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of Revelation by highlighting the severity and completeness of God's justice, contrasting it with the diluted or compromised judgments of the world.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, wine was typically mixed with water before consumption; drinking it 'unmixed' (akratos) was considered barbaric, excessive, or dangerously strong. This cultural practice makes the biblical metaphor in Revelation 14:10 particularly powerful: God's wrath is portrayed not as a moderated punishment but as a shocking, full-strength cup that overwhelms the drinker, aligning with apocalyptic literature's use of extreme imagery to convey ultimate realities.

καθαρός (katharos, G2513) — emphasizes moral or ritual purity, cleanliness, while ἄκρατος focuses on physical unmixed state. ἁπλοῦς (haplous, G573) — means 'simple' or 'single,' focusing on sincerity or generosity, not specifically on lack of mixture.

Word Details

Scripture References