Luke 15:13

Unsaved, Without Hope

The Greek word ἄσωτος (ássōtos) is derived from the verb σῴζω (sōzō), meaning "to save", with the prefix ἀ- (a-) denoting negation. Thus, ἄσωτος literally means "without salvation" or "beyond salvation", signifying a state of irreparable ruin, whether physical or moral. It denotes a condition in which recovery or redemption is no longer possible. The adverbial form ἀσώτως (asōtōs), formed by adding the adverbial suffix -τως (-tōs), describes actions taken "without salvation" or "recklessly", emphasizing behavior that leads to moral or material ruin, with no hope for recovery.

ἄσωτος (adj./subst.)

• Literal:

  • “Having no hope of safety,” “in desperate case” (Aristotle, Problemata).

  • “Past recovery” (Plutarch, Aet. phys.).

(cf. Logeion ἄσωτος)