ἄτοπος (atopos)
atopos
wrong
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word atopos literally means "out of place," derived from a negative prefix and the word for "foot" or "place." In the New Testament, it carries an ethical weight, describing actions that are unbecoming, improper, or even wicked because they violate what is right and fitting. While its root suggests something physically misplaced, the biblical usage focuses on moral dislocation.
This term appears in four verses, notably when Paul defends his conduct before King Agrippa. In Acts 26:26, he states that these things are not hidden from the king, implying that his actions were straightforward and not atopos—far from being improper or perverse. Similarly, in 2 Thessalonians 3:2, Paul prays to be delivered from wicked and evil men, contrasting himself with those whose behavior is morally out of place.
The word’s force lies in its judgment of character against a standard of righteousness. It does not merely describe an accident or mistake but a deliberate deviation from what is proper. By using atopos, the New Testament authors highlight the stark contrast between upright living and conduct that belongs to the realm of moral disorder.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word atopos describes conduct that is morally out of place, like a stone in a garden where it does not belong. It points to actions that violate what is right and fitting, rather than simple mistakes or accidents. When we seek to live with integrity, we aim for behavior that aligns with God's standards of righteousness.
In Acts 26:26, Paul defends his life before King Agrippa, stating that he has done nothing wrong. This confidence comes from a clear conscience and a commitment to truth. It reminds us that living uprightly brings peace, even when facing opposition or misunderstanding from others.
May you find strength in walking in ways that honor God. Let your actions reflect the light of Christ, bringing hope and clarity to those around you. Trust in His guidance as you navigate each day with honesty and grace.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- wrong,1×
- wrong1×
- perverse1×
- amiss1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἄτοπον2×
- ἄτοπον,1×
- ἀτόπων1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 23:41
And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong.”
The criminal acknowledges Jesus' innocence by stating he has done nothing wrong, highlighting the contrast between unjust punishment and true righteousness.
-
Acts 25:5
“Let them therefore”, he said, “that are in power among you go down with me, and if there is anything wrong in the man, let them accuse him.”
Paul invites his accusers to present any specific charges of wrongdoing, demonstrating his transparency and confidence in his upright conduct before authorities.
-
II Thessalonians 3:2
and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and evil men; for not all have faith.
Paul prays for deliverance from evil men, contrasting their wicked behavior with the faithfulness expected of believers who walk in truth.