ἄγαμος

unmarried

Definition

The Greek word ἄγαμος (agamos) specifically means 'unmarried' or 'not in a state of wedlock.' It is a broad term that can refer to individuals who have never been married, as well as those who are widowed or divorced, as long as they are not currently in a marital union. In the New Testament, it is used exclusively by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 7 to address various marital states within the Christian community. For example, in 1 Corinthians 7:8, he advises the 'unmarried' (ἀγάμοις) and widows, while in 1 Corinthians 7:11, he refers to a wife who has separated from her husband as being 'unmarried' (ἀγάμος) if she remains unmarried.

Biblical Usage

This word appears four times, all within 1 Corinthians 7 (verses 8, 11, 32, 34). Paul uses it to categorize people based on their marital status for the purpose of giving pastoral counsel. In 1 Corinthians 7:8 and 7:32-34, he addresses the 'unmarried' (including widows) regarding the spiritual advantages of singleness for undivided devotion to the Lord. In 1 Corinthians 7:11, he applies it to a separated wife, indicating her status changes if she remains unmarried.

Etymology

Derived from the negative prefix ἀ- (a-, meaning 'not' or 'without') and the root γάμος (gamos, meaning 'marriage' or 'wedding'). It is a straightforward compound meaning 'without marriage.' The root is common in words like πολύγαμος (polygamos, 'married to many') and μονογάμος (monogamos, 'married to one').

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it is central to Paul's discussion in 1 Corinthians 7 on marriage, celibacy, and Christian devotion. Understanding ἄγαμος helps clarify that Paul's teaching on the 'unmarried' state is not merely about singleness but about a relational status that allows for a particular focus on 'the things of the Lord' (1 Corinthians 7:32-34). It enriches the reading by showing that Paul's advice is pragmatic and pastoral, addressing real situations in the Corinthian church to promote peace and undistracted service.

In the first-century Greco-Roman world, marital status carried significant social and economic implications, especially for women. Being 'unmarried' (ἄγαμος) could refer to virgins, widows, or divorcees, each with different social standings. Paul's inclusive use of the term to offer spiritual counsel to all such persons was counter-cultural, elevating their value and purpose beyond societal roles to focus on service to God.

παρθένος (parthenos, G3933) — specifically a virgin, an unmarried person who has not had sexual intercourse. μονόγαμος (monogamos, G3439) — married to one person, often in contrast to polygamy or promiscuity.

Word Details

Scripture References