ἄδηλος (adēlos)
adēlos
unclear
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek adjective adēlos describes something that is hidden from view or unclear in meaning. Formed by adding a negative prefix to the word for "clear" or "visible," it literally means unseen or not manifest. In everyday usage, it points to things that are obscure, indistinct, or uncertain rather than plainly obvious.
Scripture uses this term in two distinct contexts to highlight the danger of hidden sin and ineffective communication. Jesus applies it to religious leaders who appear righteous on the outside but are inwardly corrupt, likening them to unseen graves that defile those who walk over them (Luke 11:44). Similarly, Paul warns musicians that if they play an unclear note, no one will know what is happening, suggesting that spiritual clarity must be as distinct as a recognizable sound (1 Corinthians 14:8).
This word underscores the biblical preference for transparency. Whether describing moral hypocrisy or confused preaching, adēlos represents a state where truth is obscured. It serves as a reminder that genuine faith and clear teaching leave no room for ambiguity or hidden motives.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word adēlos describes what is hidden or unclear. It carries a negative sense of obscurity. In Luke 11:44, Jesus uses it to describe hidden graves. This image warns against spiritual hypocrisy. We must examine our hearts for secret sins that others cannot see.
Paul also uses this concept in 1 Corinthians 14:8. He compares unclear teaching to an uncertain trumpet blast. If the signal is vague, no one can prepare for battle. Clear communication helps the church stand firm. Ambiguity leaves us vulnerable and confused.
God calls us to live with transparency. Let your faith be visible in your actions. Speak truth clearly so others may understand. This clarity protects both you and those around you from deception.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- unmarked,1×
- indistinct1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἄδηλον1×
- ἄδηλα,1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 11:44
Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like hidden graves, and the men who walk over them don’t know it.”
The word describes hidden graves to expose the inward corruption of outwardly righteous religious leaders.
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I Corinthians 14:8
For if the trumpet gave an uncertain sound, who would prepare himself for war?
Paul uses the term for an uncertain trumpet sound to argue that spiritual clarity is essential for readiness and action.