πορνεύω

I fornicate, practice idolatry

Definition

The verb πορνεύω primarily means to engage in sexual immorality, specifically fornication or prostitution, as seen in 1 Corinthians 6:18 where believers are commanded to flee from it. In a broader, metaphorical sense, it is used to describe spiritual unfaithfulness or idolatry, where turning to false gods is likened to marital infidelity against God. This metaphorical usage is prominent in Revelation, such as in Revelation 2:14 and 2:20, where it refers to participating in idolatrous practices. Thus, the word encompasses both literal sexual sin and the figurative betrayal of exclusive devotion to God.

Biblical Usage

Πορνεύω is used seven times in the New Testament, primarily in Paul's letters and Revelation. In 1 Corinthians 6:18 and 10:8, Paul addresses literal sexual immorality within the Christian community. In Revelation, it appears five times (Revelation 2:14, 2:20, 17:2, 18:3, 18:9) almost exclusively in a metaphorical sense, describing the idolatrous alliances and corrupt practices of Babylon and compromising churches. This pattern shows a shift from concrete ethical instruction to symbolic prophetic condemnation.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek noun πόρνη (pornē), meaning 'prostitute' or 'harlot.' The verb form πορνεύω literally means 'to act as a prostitute' or 'to engage in illicit sexual activity.' This root gives rise to the English word 'pornography.' In biblical usage, the meaning expanded beyond the purely sexual to include spiritual infidelity, drawing on Old Testament imagery where idolatry is described as prostitution (e.g., Hosea).

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it connects sexual ethics with core themes of covenant faithfulness. It underscores that sin is not merely a private act but a violation of one's sacred relationship with God, mirroring the prophetic critique of idolatry in the Old Testament. Understanding this dual meaning enriches reading by revealing how physical immorality and spiritual adultery are both breaches of divine covenant, highlighting God's call for exclusive devotion in both conduct and worship.

In the Greco-Roman world, πορνεύω referred to common sexual practices outside marriage, including prostitution and consensual unions not sanctioned by law. Cultic prostitution was also associated with some pagan religions. The biblical authors, however, infused the term with Hebrew covenantal theology, where idolatry was consistently portrayed as spiritual 'whoredom' (e.g., in the prophets). This created a stark contrast between the permissive pagan sexual norms and the biblical standard of purity and exclusive loyalty to God.

μοιχεύω (moicheuō, G3431) — specifically denotes adultery, violation of marriage vows. ἀκαθαρσία (akatharsia, G167) — a broader term for impurity or uncleanness, often including sexual sin. εἰδωλολατρία (eidōlolatria, G1495) — direct term for idolatry, the metaphorical sense of πορνεύω.

Word Details

Scripture References