ἀνυπόκριτος

unfeigned, without hypocrisy

Definition

The adjective ἀνυπόκριτος means 'unfeigned,' 'without hypocrisy,' or 'genuinely sincere.' It describes a quality that is not pretended or performed but is authentically expressed from the heart. In the New Testament, it consistently modifies virtues central to Christian character, such as love (Romans 12:9, 1 Peter 1:22, 2 Timothy 1:5), faith (1 Timothy 1:5), and wisdom (James 3:17), emphasizing that these must be utterly real and free from deceit. Its use with 'brotherly love' in 1 Peter 1:22 highlights that this sincere affection is a result of obedience to the truth and purification of the soul.

Biblical Usage

ἀνυπόκριτος is used six times in the New Testament, appearing in epistles that focus on practical Christian living and church instruction. It is employed to qualify essential Christian virtues, stressing their authenticity. For example, love must be 'without hypocrisy' (Romans 12:9), faith is 'unfeigned' (1 Timothy 1:5), and wisdom from above is first 'pure, then peaceable... without hypocrisy' (James 3:17). The pattern shows it is a key descriptor for the integrity expected in the believer's inner life and outward conduct within the community.

Etymology

Derived from the alpha-privative ἀν- (a-, meaning 'not' or 'without') and the root ὑποκριτής (hypokritēs, G5273), which means 'actor,' 'stage-player,' or 'hypocrite.' The root implies pretending or wearing a mask. Thus, ἀνυπόκριτος literally means 'without acting,' 'unmasked,' or 'not pretending,' conveying the idea of complete sincerity with no gap between inner reality and outward expression.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it defines the quality of genuine Christian virtue, contrasting true faith with mere external religiosity. It underscores that God values heart-level authenticity, not performance. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting the biblical call to integrity, especially in love (agape) and faith, which are foundational to Christian ethics and community life (e.g., 1 Peter 1:22's 'unfeigned brotherly love').

In the Greco-Roman world, the theater and public oratory were common, making the concept of 'hypocrisy' (acting a part) a vivid cultural metaphor. ἀνυπόκριτος would resonate as a rejection of social pretense and performance, calling for a sincerity that was counter-cultural in a society often valuing outward appearance and reputation.

ἁπλότης (haplotēs, G572) — simplicity, sincerity, generosity; focuses on singleness of heart and motive. εἰλικρινής (eilikrinēs, G1506) — pure, sincere, judged by sunlight; emphasizes purity and clarity free from mixture.

Word Details

Scripture References