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G411 · Greek · New Testament
ἀνεκδιήγητος
Anekdiegetos
Adjective
Indescribable; inexpressible; beyond telling

Definition

Paul uses this extraordinary word in 2 Corinthians 9:15: "Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!" (anekdiegetos). Having spent the chapter urging generous giving and describing God's own generosity, Paul lands on a word that simply confesses the inadequacy of all language to capture what God has done in Christ. The gift of Jesus exceeds all description. It is the supreme answer to human poverty — a gift so vast it leaves the recipient speechless.

Usage & Theological Significance

Anekdiegetos is formed from the alpha-privative (a = not) + ek (out) + diegeomai (describe/narrate in detail) — that which cannot be fully narrated, too great for adequate description. It appears only once in the New Testament.

Key Bible Verses

2 Corinthians 9:15 Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!
Romans 11:33 Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!
Ephesians 3:8 "To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ."
1 Peter 1:8 Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory.
Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born... and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Related Words

External Resources

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