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G215 · Greek · New Testament
ἀλάλητος
alalētos
Adjective
inexpressible, unutterable

Definition

Alalētos (G215) means that which cannot be spoken or uttered — from alpha-privative + laleō (to speak). It appears only in Romans 8:26, where the Spirit intercedes for us with 'groanings too deep for words' (stenagmois alalētois). The inexpressible is the Spirit's own prayer on behalf of the helpless believer.

Usage & Theological Significance

Romans 8:26 is one of the most comforting verses about prayer. When believers do not know how to pray or what to say, the Spirit himself takes up the burden with groanings that transcend language. The word alalētos — inexpressible — captures this: some prayer is too deep, too desperate, too holy for human words. The Spirit translates the inarticulate groaning of the heart into perfect intercession before the Father.

Key Bible Verses

Romans 8:26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words [stenagmois alalētois].
Romans 8:27 And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.
2 Corinthians 12:4 and he heard things that cannot be told, which man may not utter.
1 Peter 1:8 Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory.
Romans 8:34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died — more than that, who was raised — who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.

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