### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **áthesmos**, represented by `{{G113}}`, denotes what is **lawless** or, by implication, **criminal** and **wicked**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is derived from a negative particle and a word related to enacting law, signifying a state of being against established order.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G113}}` characterizes those who pose a direct threat to the righteous. It is used to describe the individuals from whom God **delivered** `{{G4506}}` "just Lot" `{{G3091}}`, who was vexed by their "filthy conversation" [[2 Peter 2:7]]. The term also appears in a warning for believers to **beware** `{{G5442}}` of being "led away with the error of the **wicked**," which could cause them to "fall from" `{{G1601}}` their own "stedfastness" [[2 Peter 3:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of **áthesmos**:
* `{{G1342}}` **díkaios** (just, righteous): As the description of Lot, this word provides a direct contrast to the **wicked** `{{G113}}`, establishing a clear distinction between the lawless and the righteous [[2 Peter 2:7]].
* `{{G766}}` **asélgeia** (filthy, lasciviousness): This term specifies the nature of the behavior of the **wicked** that vexed Lot, directly connecting the concept of being lawless with wantonness [[2 Peter 2:7]].
* `{{G4106}}` **plánē** (error, delusion): This word identifies the tool used by the **wicked**. Their lawlessness is not only behavioral but intellectual, creating a "delusion" that can lead others astray [[2 Peter 3:17]].
* `{{G1601}}` **ekpíptō** (fall away, drop away): This word highlights the severe danger posed by the **wicked**, as their error can cause believers to lose their spiritual footing and "fall away" [[2 Peter 3:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G113}}` revolves around the concepts of spiritual corruption and divine preservation.
* **Active Corruption:** The **wicked** are not neutral but actively "vex" `{{G2669}}` the righteous through their immoral lifestyle, demonstrating that lawlessness has a tangible, oppressive impact on the godly [[2 Peter 2:7]].
* **Spiritual Instability:** The "error of the **wicked**" is a direct threat to a believer's spiritual stability. It is a force that can lead one away from their "stedfastness" `{{G4740}}`, emphasizing the need for vigilance [[2 Peter 3:17]].
* **God's Deliverance:** The context of Lot's story shows that God acts to **rescue** `{{G4506}}` the just from the influence and presence of the lawless, highlighting a theme of divine protection for the faithful.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G113}}` **áthesmos** is more than a general term for evil; it specifically identifies those who are **lawless**. This lawlessness is expressed through both morally corrupt behavior that torments the righteous and deceptive error that threatens the stability of believers. The word serves as a crucial warning, contrasting the destructive path of the **wicked** with the secure "stedfastness" God grants to those He has foreknown.
TRV