ἀλυσιτελής

profitless, unprofitable

Definition

ἀλυσιτελής describes something that is not beneficial or advantageous, but rather harmful or detrimental. It carries the sense of being 'unprofitable' or 'profitless,' implying that an action or situation yields no positive gain and may even cause loss. In its biblical usage in Hebrews 13:17, it characterizes the burdensome, sorrowful leadership of church overseers as being 'of no advantage' to the congregation. The term can thus extend beyond mere lack of profit to suggest active disadvantage or spiritual harm.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only once in the New Testament, in Hebrews 13:17. It is used in the context of Christian obedience to spiritual leaders. The author warns that causing leaders grief through disobedience is 'unprofitable' (ἀλυσιτελές) for the believers themselves. The usage is ethical and pastoral, highlighting the mutual responsibility within the church community and the negative spiritual consequences of strife.

Etymology

Derived from the alpha-privative ἀ- (a-, meaning 'not' or 'without') combined with λυσιτελής (lysitelēs), which means 'profitable' or 'advantageous.' Λυσιτελής itself comes from λύω (lyō, 'to loose, release') and τέλος (telos, 'end, purpose, tax'), originally conveying the idea of something that 'pays off' or brings a beneficial return. Thus, ἀλυσιτελής literally means 'not paying off' or 'not bringing a beneficial end.'

Semantic Range

This word underscores the New Testament principle of spiritual accountability and the interconnected health of the Christian community. It teaches that disobedience and strife are not merely personal failings but are 'unprofitable'—they yield no spiritual dividend and actively hinder God's work. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of Hebrews 13:17 by emphasizing that harmonious, submissive relationships within the church are essential for collective spiritual growth and advantage.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of 'profit' (λυσιτελής) was often used in commercial, political, and ethical discussions about what was advantageous for the individual or state. The biblical author uses this culturally familiar term of calculated gain and applies it to the spiritual economy of the church, subverting a purely self-interested mindset by showing that true 'profit' comes through godly submission and peace.

ἀνωφελής (anōphelēs, G512) — emphasizes being 'unhelpful' or 'useless,' often in a more general sense of providing no benefit. ἄχρηστος (achrēstos, G890) — means 'unusable,' 'unprofitable,' or 'worthless,' focusing on a lack of utility or fitness for purpose.

Word Details

Scripture References