Something ineffable is complex to narrate.
The concept of ineffable comes from a Latin word that means indescribable and is used to refer to that which cannot be explained with words . The ineffable, therefore, cannot be narrated or expressed .
It is worth mentioning that like terms such as inexorable or infallible, ineffable is a word that is formed by the prefix in- which indicates negation and the concept effable which means that it can be put into words . By joining the term to negation, a new word is formed with the opposite meaning: that which cannot be expressed.
In the following sentences we can find several uses of the term: “An ineffable fear took over his being when he realized that there was no way out,” “When he entered the room, he found an ineffable situation,” “It is an ineffable achievement for our country that will be remembered for decades.”
The ineffable, difficult to explain
The concept is currently used in a more indefinite and generic sense . Ineffable is usually an adjective that is applied to people or situations that are difficult to classify, explain or justify . Sometimes in a complimentary sense it can be used to express that something has been invaluable or impressive, that it has made a truly positive impression on us.
In a similar sense we can resort to the following example: “The ineffable lawyer once again found himself at the center of the controversy when he accused the journalist of being a gangster.” It contains a consideration about a lawyer who, in principle, does not seem to fit another definition or qualification. It is possible to think of prestigious, recognized or experienced lawyers, but when referring to an ineffable lawyer, one does not know precisely what one is talking about.
In turn, the concept can be used with an abstract connotation , as in the following example: “The ineffable charm of television violence.” In this case, the term is linked to the difficulties that exist in explaining why television violence attracts viewers. Violence, logically, is reprehensible and condemned at a social level; However, for some unclear reason, when violence appears on TV it seems attractive and becomes entertainment. The ineffable thing, then, is related to how difficult it is to explain this situation .
The ineffable lacks explanation.
The concept in the religious field
This concept has fallen into disuse in recent years, with others being preferred such as inexpressible or unspeakable; However, in the religious sphere, above all, it is still being heard.
It is common, for example, to use it to talk about the gifts that God has given to people, trying to express that they are difficult to explain; It is also used to refer to issues related to faith and the relationship that believers maintain with their God.
He is God! He is your Father and loves you with ineffable Love! In the previous phrase, the believer's humility in the face of God's love is evident; Feeling loved is something that you cannot express in words, but you can feel it in the depths of your being.
It is worth mentioning that the Church teaches believers not to seek too many explanations for God's actions nor to try to understand that love and relationship, since not everything has an explanation in this world. Rather, it instructs them that the only thing they should think about is giving God the same love with which he blesses them, maintaining correct and just actions.