ἄχρηστος (achrēstos)
achrēstos
useless
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective achristos describes something that is useless or unprofitable. It literally means "without use," combining a negative prefix with a root related to benefit or service. In the New Testament, this word appears only once, in Philemon 1:11, where Paul refers to Onesimus.
Paul contrasts Onesimus’s previous state as achristos with his new status as useful (euchristos) to both Paul and the church. This shift highlights a profound change in value and purpose. The term does not imply moral failure but rather a lack of utility or benefit, which is now restored through reconciliation.
Translators typically render achristos as "useless" or "unprofitable." The word’s rarity underscores the significance of its single occurrence, marking a pivotal moment in Onesimus’s transformation from someone of no practical value to a beloved brother.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word achristos describes a state of being without use or benefit. It does not judge a person’s character or worth, but simply notes a lack of practical value in a specific context. This distinction is vital because it separates human utility from inherent dignity. No one is defined by their current usefulness to others.
In Philemon 1:11, Paul uses this term for Onesimus, who had previously been useless to his master. Yet through reconciliation, that same man became highly useful. This shift shows how relationships and grace can transform perceived worth. Your value in Christ is not based on your productivity or performance.
When you feel ineffective or overlooked, remember that God sees beyond temporary utility. He restores purpose where there was once none. This promise offers hope to anyone who feels discarded or inadequate in their current season.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- useless1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἄχρηστον1×
Key Verses
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Philemon 1:11
who once was useless to you, but now is useful to you and to me.
Paul contrasts Onesimus's past state of being useless with his new status as useful, highlighting the transformative power of reconciliation.