### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word αἰσχρόν (aischrón, `{{G149}}`) is the neuter singular form of the adjective αἰσχρός (aischrós), which fundamentally means "shameful," "base," "dishonorable," "disgraceful," or "ugly." As a neuter substantive, αἰσχρόν refers to "a shameful thing," "that which is disgraceful," or "indecorum." It denotes an action, behavior, or state that elicits shame, disgrace, or moral repugnance. The term carries strong moral implications, pointing to that which is morally offensive, indecent, or contrary to good conduct and purity, rather than merely something unpleasant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
αἰσχρόν (aischrón, `{{G149}}`) appears in the New Testament in contexts where Paul emphasizes the ethical conduct expected of believers, often contrasting it with what is improper or dishonorable.
* **[[Ephesians 5:12]]**: "For it is even a shame to speak of those things which are done of them in secret." Here, αἰσχρόν describes actions so morally repugnant and inherently disgraceful (specifically the hidden deeds of pagan immorality) that merely discussing them is considered shameful. The verse underscores the absolute incompatibility of such deeds with the life of light to which believers are called, emphasizing a profound moral revulsion.
* **[[1 Corinthians 14:35]]**: "And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church." In this context, αἰσχρόν refers to behavior deemed improper or disgraceful within the specific setting of public worship. The shame is associated with a breach of order and decorum, potentially disruptive or unseemly conduct that undermines the edification and witness of the gathered assembly. It highlights the importance of maintaining a dignified and respectful environment for the glory of God.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Antonyms:** The conceptual opposite of αἰσχρόν would be that which is honorable, beautiful, good, or proper. This includes words such as καλός (kalos, `{{G2570}}`, "good," "beautiful," "noble") and ἀγαθός (agathos, `{{G18}}`, "good," "beneficial").
* **Synonyms/Related:**
* αἰσχύνη (aischynē, `{{G152}}`): This is the noun form, meaning "shame," "disgrace," or "ignominy." While αἰσχρόν describes the *thing* that causes shame, αἰσχύνη often refers to the subjective feeling of shame or the state of being disgraced.
* ἀπρεπής (aprepes, `{{G693}}`): "unseemly," "improper," "indecent." This term focuses more on what is unfitting or inappropriate.
* **Conceptual Links:** The word is intrinsically linked to broader biblical concepts of purity, holiness, decorum, moral uprightness, and the fundamental distinction between light and darkness, especially in the context of Christian ethics.
### Theological Significance
The use of αἰσχρόν in the New Testament establishes a clear and uncompromising moral standard for believers. It highlights that certain actions and behaviors are inherently disgraceful and incompatible with the Christian walk, demanding a radical departure from the world's ways.
* **Moral Purity and Distinction:** In [[Ephesians 5:12]], αἰσχρόν underscores the stark contrast between the hidden deeds of darkness (pagan immorality) and the transparent, pure life called for in Christ. Believers are not only to avoid such deeds but also to find their very discussion shameful, indicating a profound moral revulsion that should characterize those who walk in the light.
* **Order and Edification in the Church:** In [[1 Corinthians 14:35]], αἰσχρόν emphasizes the importance of order, decorum, and appropriate conduct within the worshiping community. Disruptive or unseemly behavior, even if not inherently "sinful" in a general sense, is deemed "shameful" because it undermines the edification, witness, and spiritual integrity of the church. This speaks to the corporate responsibility for maintaining an environment that honors God and facilitates spiritual growth.
* **Ethical Transformation:** The term reinforces the New Testament's call to ethical transformation, where believers are to put off the "old self" and its shameful deeds and put on the "new self," characterized by righteousness and holiness. It serves as a powerful reminder to discern and reject anything that brings disgrace to the name of Christ or the community of faith.
### Summary
αἰσχρόν (aischrón, `{{G149}}`) is a potent Greek term, functioning as a neuter substantive to denote "a shameful thing," "that which is disgraceful," or "indecorum." Its primary New Testament occurrences in [[Ephesians 5:12]] and [[1 Corinthians 14:35]] highlight its significant theological implications. In Ephesians, it marks the inherent disgrace of pagan immorality, emphasizing the profound moral distinction between the world's darkness and the believer's life in Christ. In 1 Corinthians, it underscores the necessity of order and decorum within the church, indicating that disruptive conduct is shameful and detrimental to the community's witness. Ultimately, αἰσχρόν calls believers to a life of purity, honor, and order, rejecting all that is morally repugnant and unbecoming of those who bear the name of Christ.
TRV