ἀκαθαρσία

uncleanness, impurity

Definition

The Greek word ἀκαθαρσία (akatharsia) fundamentally means 'uncleanness' or 'impurity.' In the New Testament, it primarily refers to moral and spiritual impurity, especially in the context of sexual sin and idolatry. For example, in Romans 1:24, it describes the impurity of idolatry and sexual immorality that results from rejecting God. In ethical lists like Galatians 5:19 and Colossians 3:5, it is a vice of the flesh, specifically linked to sexual sin. However, it can also have a broader sense of general moral corruption, as seen in its use for the 'uncleanness' of hypocrisy in Matthew 23:27.

Biblical Usage

ἀκαθαρσία is used 10 times in the New Testament, predominantly in the Pauline epistles. Paul consistently employs it in vice lists to categorize serious sexual sins and idolatrous practices (Romans 1:24, Galatians 5:19, Ephesians 4:19, Colossians 3:5). He also uses it to describe the sinful state from which believers have been cleansed (Romans 6:19) and as a grave concern for church discipline (2 Corinthians 12:21). The single non-Pauline use is by Jesus, who metaphorically applies it to the inner corruption of the Pharisees (Matthew 23:27).

Etymology

Derived from the alpha-privative ἀ- (meaning 'not' or 'without') and the root related to καθαρίζω (katharizō, G2511), meaning 'to cleanse' or 'to purify.' Thus, it literally means 'the state of not being cleansed' or 'uncleanness.' It is the opposite of ἁγνός (hagnos, G53), meaning 'pure.'

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it defines a core category of sin—moral impurity that separates humanity from a holy God. It highlights that sin is not just an action but a state of corruption. Understanding ἀκαθαρσία enriches the reading of passages on sanctification, as believers are called to be cleansed from it (Romans 6:19) and to put it to death (Colossians 3:5). It contrasts sharply with the purity and holiness God desires, underscoring the need for redemption and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.

In its original Jewish and Greco-Roman setting, 'uncleanness' (akatharsia) had strong ritual and moral connotations. For Jews, it evoked concepts from the Levitical law regarding ceremonial defilement. For Gentiles, it resonated with the corruption associated with pagan idolatry and sexual practices. The New Testament authors, especially Paul, spiritualize and moralize this term, applying it primarily to inward sin and rebellion against God, transcending its earlier ritual associations.

ἁμαρτία (hamartia, G266) — a broader term for 'sin' or 'missing the mark,' whereas ἀκαθαρσία specifies the impurity aspect of sin. μολυσμός (molusmos, G3436) — emphasizes 'defilement' or 'stain,' often from external contact. ἀσέλγεια (aselgeia, G766) — denotes 'licentiousness' or 'sensuality,' a specific, unrestrained expression of ἀκαθαρσία.

Word Details

Scripture References