ἀναντιρρήτως

without contradiction

Definition

The adverb ἀναντιρρήτως means 'without contradiction' or 'without objection.' It describes an action performed without hesitation, dispute, or argument. In its sole New Testament occurrence in Acts 10:29, it characterizes Peter's prompt and unquestioning compliance with the divine vision he received. The term conveys a sense of immediate and unreserved obedience, especially in response to a clear directive.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Acts 10:29. Peter uses it to explain to Cornelius and his household why he, a Jew, has come to a Gentile's home without objection. The context is Peter's obedience to the heavenly vision (Acts 10:9-16) that overturned Jewish dietary laws and social barriers, leading him to associate with Gentiles. The usage highlights a decisive, non-hesitant action in fulfilling a divine commission.

Etymology

Derived from the alpha-privative ἀν- (an-, meaning 'not' or 'without') combined with the root related to ἀντιρρητός (antirrētos), which means 'spoken against' or 'contradicted.' The root itself comes from ἀντί (anti, 'against') and ῥητός (rhētos, 'spoken,' from the verb λέγω, to speak). Thus, the compound word literally means 'in a manner not spoken against' or 'without contradiction.'

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it underscores the theme of immediate, unquestioning obedience to God's revelation. In Acts 10, it marks a pivotal moment in salvation history—the inclusion of the Gentiles into the church. Peter's 'without contradiction' response models how believers should react to divine guidance that challenges personal or cultural prejudices. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading by highlighting the decisive break from Jewish particularism, emphasizing that the gospel advances through obedient steps of faith.

In its 1st-century Jewish context, Peter's action was culturally shocking. Strict Jewish custom forbade associating with or visiting Gentiles (Acts 10:28). By stating he came 'without contradiction,' Peter acknowledges he set aside deep-seated cultural and religious taboos. The word captures the magnitude of his obedience, moving beyond mere personal preference to overturning a significant social and religious boundary in response to God's clear instruction.

εὐθύς (euthys, G2112) — emphasizes immediacy in time ('immediately, at once'). ἀναντιρρήτως focuses more on the absence of argument or dispute. ταχέως (tacheōs, G5030) — means 'quickly' or 'speedily,' stressing swiftness of action rather than the lack of objection.

Word Details

Scripture References