### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun αἰσχρότης (aischrótēs, `{{G151}}`) signifies "shamefulness," "obscenity," or "filthiness." It is derived from the adjective αἰσχρός (aischrós, `{{G150}}`), which denotes that which is morally ugly, base, indecent, or deserving of shame. Thus, αἰσχρότης points beyond mere physical dirt to a moral and ethical defilement, specifically that which evokes disgrace or impropriety. It encompasses speech or behavior that is morally repugnant, vulgar, or offensive to a sense of decency. The emphasis is on the inherent indecency and the shame it brings upon the perpetrator.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term αἰσχρότης (aischrótēs, `{{G151}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, found in Paul's epistle to the Colossians:
* **[[Colossians 3:8]]**: "But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth."
In this singular occurrence, αἰσχρότης is rendered as "obscene talk" or "filthiness." It is listed among a cluster of vices that believers, having been raised with Christ, are exhorted to "put away" or "lay aside." These vices – anger, wrath, malice, and slander – are primarily sins of the inner disposition that manifest outwardly, particularly through speech. The inclusion of αἰσχρότης in this list underscores its nature as a verbal transgression. It refers to speech that is morally offensive, indecent, or vulgar, reflecting an unregenerate heart. The command to "put them all away" emphasizes the radical break believers are to make with their former way of life, characterized by such defiling communication.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding αἰσχρότης (aischrótēs, `{{G151}}`) is enhanced by examining its lexical family and related concepts:
* **αἰσχρός (aischrós, `{{G150}}`)**: The root adjective, meaning "shameful," "base," "morally ugly," or "disgraceful." It describes the quality from which αἰσχρότης derives its essence.
* **αἰσχρολογία (aischrología, `{{G152}}`)**: "Filthy communication" or "obscene speech." This noun directly translates to "shameful talk" and is a very close semantic parallel, specifically focusing on the act of speaking what is αἰσχρός. While αἰσχρότης might encompass the state of shamefulness, αἰσχρολογία pinpoints the specific act of uttering it.
* **αἰσχροκερδής (aischrokerdēs, `{{G148}}`)**: "Greedy for dishonest gain," literally "shamefully greedy." This demonstrates how the concept of "shameful" can extend beyond speech to actions driven by improper motives.
* **μωρολογία (mōrología, `{{G3473}}`)**: "Foolish talk" or "silly talk," often associated with inappropriate or unedifying speech.
* **σαπρὸς λόγος (sapros logos, `{{G4550}}` for sapros, `{{G3056}}` for logos)**: "Corrupting talk" or "unwholesome speech," as seen in [[Ephesians 4:29]]. This term describes speech that is rotten, useless, or destructive, contrasting with speech that builds up.
These related terms collectively highlight the New Testament's strong emphasis on the purity and edifying nature of Christian speech, contrasting sharply with any form of αἰσχρότης.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of αἰσχρότης (aischrótēs, `{{G151}}`) lies in its representation of speech that is fundamentally antithetical to the new life in Christ. As part of the "old self" that believers are commanded to "put away" ([[Colossians 3:8-9]]), αἰσχρότης signifies a form of communication that is characteristic of unredeemed humanity. It defiles the speaker and pollutes the spiritual environment, standing in stark contrast to the divine call for holiness and purity.
Christian speech is intended to be a reflection of an inner transformation wrought by the Holy Spirit. The mouth, which is to be used for blessing God and edifying others, must not be employed for obscenity or anything that brings shame. This aligns with the broader biblical principle that the body, including the tongue, is a temple of the Holy Spirit and an instrument of righteousness. To engage in αἰσχρότης is to dishonor God and to misrepresent the new creation in Christ. It underscores the profound change in character and conduct expected of those who have been redeemed, extending even to the most common forms of daily communication.
### Summary
αἰσχρότης (aischrótēs, `{{G151}}`) denotes "shamefulness" or "obscenity," particularly as manifested in speech. Its singular occurrence in [[Colossians 3:8]] places it within a list of vices—anger, wrath, malice, and slander—that believers are exhorted to "put away" as part of shedding the "old self." This highlights that αἰσχρότης represents morally offensive or vulgar communication that is incompatible with the new life in Christ. Theologically, it underscores the call for purity in all aspects of a believer's life, especially in their words, which should reflect the transformative power of God rather than the defilement of the world.
TRV