[Greek] ἀνάξιος (anaxios), [Latin] minimis : (adjective) failing to follow an axiom (principle), unworthy, unfit, not competent, unreasonable, inappropriate, unqualified; 1 Cor. 6:2
[Greek] ἀναξίως (anaxiōs): (adverb) failing to follow an axiom (principle), unworthily, improperly; 1 Cor.11:27,29
Paul has concerns that the Corinthians have been eating and drinking unworthily and unknowingly
Background Information:
New Testament: These two Greek terms are very closely related. The first term is an adjective, while the second term is its related adverb. This Greek adverb is identified by an accent mark over the letter “o”. The Christians at Corinth are suing one another before pagan judges in Roman courts. Paul has concerns as to why these Christians cannot settle disputes among themselves. The Corinthians are also eating and drinking the sacred mean unworthily. To do otherwise brings judgment upon themselves. This is a matter about properly eating the Bread and drinking the Blood.
Scripture:
“Therefore, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord unworthily will have to answer for the Body and Blood of the Lord…For anyone who eats and drink without discerning the Body eats and drinks judgment on himself.” 1 Cor.11:27-29
The Corinthians have been eating and drinking improperly. This is a sacred meal. The only proper way to celebrate the Eucharist is to follow Jesus’ command to reproduce this action in the proper spirit. In addition one must have some understanding of this meal. To do otherwise is to eat and drink improperly.
“Do you not know that the holy one will judge the world? If the world is to be judged by, are you unqualified for the lowest law courts?” 1Cor.6:2
Paul has some concerns about why the Corinthians cannot settle these disputes within themselves.
Conclusion:
Axiom, axiomatic, minimal
Sometimes axioms can be factually true, but are pointless. Here is a early classical Greek axiom: “When an equal amount is taken from equals, an equal amount results.” Duh!
An axiom is essentially a statement, proposition, or accepted truth. This self-evident truth shouldn’t need further proof. But in more serious matters, one does not partake of the eating the Bread and drinking the cup without respect and reverence, and without understanding.
This also applies to today. Therefore, non-Catholics, out of respect, do not partake of the Eucharist at Mass. To do otherwise would be acting unworthily. Non-Catholics are welcome to receive a blessing from the Eucharistic minister. This can also apply to Catholics. Even Catholics are instructed to be mindful of worthily receiving the Eucharist. Then it goes without saying that Catholics must show the same respect (even not partake) for non-Catholics when important doctrinal beliefs (and practices) may differ.
So perhaps Jesus says it best of all: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” (The Golden Rule)