### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **góēs**, represented by `{{G1114}}`, defines a **seducer** or **imposter**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The word's base definition comes from the idea of wailing or muttering spells, properly describing a wizard, and by implication, one who misleads or defrauds others through such means.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G1114}}` is found in [[2 Timothy 3:13]], where it appears in a warning about the character of people in the last days. The verse states that "evil men and **seducers** shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived." In this context, a **góēs** is presented as a type of evil person who actively engages in deception, a practice that not only harms others but also reflects their own state of being deceived.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature of the `{{G1114}}` seducer:
* `{{G4190}}` **ponērós** (hurtful, i.e. evil): This term describes the moral character of the seducer, appearing in the same verse as "evil men" [[2 Timothy 3:13]]. It signifies a nature that is morally culpable and vicious, as seen when it describes a man who brings forth evil from the treasure of his heart [[Luke 6:45]].
* `{{G444}}` **ánthrōpos** (man-faced, i.e. a human being): This word specifies that these seducers are "men," grounding the warning in the context of human agents of deception [[2 Timothy 3:13]]. It is the general term for a human being, as used in the declaration that "man shall not live by bread alone" [[Matthew 4:4]].
* `{{G4105}}` **planáō** (to cause to roam from safety, truth, or virtue): This verb describes the primary action of a `{{G1114}}` seducer. In [[2 Timothy 3:13]], they are characterized as "deceiving." This same word is used to describe the activity of Satan, who "deceiveth the whole world" [[Revelation 12:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1114}}` is concentrated in its role as a warning against spiritual falsehood.
* **The Nature of Deception:** The term points to a form of deception that is active and persuasive, akin to a wizard's spell. This is not passive falsehood but a deliberate effort to lead people astray from truth, a tactic used by false prophets who perform signs and wonders to "deceive the very elect" [[Matthew 24:24]].
* **The Progression of Evil:** The statement that these seducers "shall wax worse and worse" highlights a principle of spiritual and moral decline [[2 Timothy 3:13]]. Evil is not static but a corrupting influence that intensifies over time in those who practice it.
* **The Link to Evil Character:** The use of `{{G1114}}` alongside `{{G4190}}` ("evil") establishes that the act of seducing others stems from a corrupt inner character. An evil heart produces evil actions, and an evil conscience must be cleansed to draw near to God ([[Luke 6:45]], [[Hebrews 10:22]]).
### Summary
In summary, though used only once, `{{G1114}}` provides a potent description of a malicious imposter. More than a simple liar, the **góēs** is an active agent of deception, whose work is rooted in an evil character and is part of a downward spiral of increasing corruption. The term serves as a critical warning, illustrating the nature of those who would deliberately lead others away from truth and into error.
TRV