ἀπροσωπολήπτως

impartially

Definition

The adverb ἀπροσωπολήπτως means 'impartially' or 'without partiality,' specifically describing an action done without showing favoritism or undue preference based on a person's external status, appearance, or social standing. In its sole New Testament occurrence, it characterizes God the Father's judgment, emphasizing His perfect fairness. This term carries a strong judicial connotation, implying a verdict rendered without being swayed by personal bias or human distinctions. The concept is deeply rooted in the Jewish and Christian understanding of God's righteous character, contrasting with the common human tendency to judge by outward appearances.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in 1 Peter 1:17. It appears in the context of exhorting believers to live in reverent fear during their time as 'foreigners' on earth, because they call upon a Father who judges each person's work 'impartially' (ἀπροσωπολήπτως). The usage is directly tied to the nature of God's judgment—it is universal, fair, and based on deeds, not on personal favoritism or the recipient's social identity.

Etymology

Derived from the alpha-privative prefix ἀ- (a-, meaning 'without' or 'not') combined with the root of the word προσωπολήμπτης (prosōpolēmptēs, G4381), which means 'a respecter of persons' or 'one who shows partiality.' That root word itself comes from πρόσωπον (prosōpon, 'face' or 'person') and λαμβάνω (lambanō, 'to receive' or 'to take'). Thus, the literal sense is 'without receiving/reckoning the person'—acting without regard for who someone is externally.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it reveals a core attribute of God: His impartial justice. In a world stratified by class, ethnicity, and wealth, the biblical God judges based on truth and righteousness, not human status (see also Acts 10:34, Romans 2:11). This underscores the universal scope of the gospel and the seriousness of divine judgment for all people. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting the stark contrast between God's perfect standard and the flawed, preferential judgments common in human societies.

In the 1st-century Greco-Roman and Jewish world, patronage, social status, and family connections heavily influenced justice and favor. Showing 'partiality' or 'favoritism' (προσωπολημψία) was a common societal practice. Peter's use of this term directly challenges that cultural norm by presenting God as the ultimate judge who operates on a completely different, equitable principle. It reassured marginalized believers that their standing before God was not inferior to that of the socially powerful.

ἀδικρίτως (adikritōs, G87) — emphasizes being 'without discrimination' or 'without making a distinction,' often in a more general sense. ἀμερολόγητος (amerologētos, G288) — 'without partiality' or 'not accepting a bribe,' with a stronger focus on incorruptibility in judgment.

Word Details

Scripture References