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G564 · Greek · New Testament
ἀπερίτμητος
Aperitmētos
Adjective
Uncircumcised (literally or spiritually)

Definition

The Greek adjective aperitmētos (from a- 'without' + peritemnō 'to circumcise') means uncircumcised — lacking the covenant mark of circumcision. In Stephen's speech in Acts 7:51, it is used metaphorically of spiritual hardness.

Usage & Theological Significance

Stephen's charge to the Sanhedrin that they were 'uncircumcised in heart and ears' (aperitmētos) draws on a long prophetic tradition (Jeremiah 4:4; Ezekiel 44:9) that distinguished outward circumcision from inner covenant faithfulness. Having the physical mark while resisting the Spirit's work made them, in God's economy, as uncircumcised as any pagan. Paul develops this theme extensively in Romans 2:25-29 and Philippians 3:3: true circumcision is of the heart — the Spirit's cutting away of the flesh's dominance. The aperitmētos charge was devastating to its recipients because it denied their most fundamental religious identity — and redirected that identity to the inner life.

Key Bible Verses

Acts 7:51 You stiff-necked people! Your hearts and ears are still uncircumcised (aperitmētos). You are just like your ancestors: You always resist the Holy Spirit!
Romans 2:29 No, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code.
Philippians 3:3 For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh.
Jeremiah 4:4 Circumcise yourselves to the LORD, circumcise your hearts, you people of Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem.
Colossians 2:11 In him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human hands.

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