The Greek word ekporneúō, represented by G1608, means to be utterly unchaste or to give self over to fornication. This term is derived from ἐκ and πορνεύω. It is used with extreme specificity in the Bible, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse.
The singular use of G1608 appears in the context of divine judgment. It describes the actions of Sodom G4670 and Gomorrha G1116 and the surrounding cities G4172. These cities are described as giving themselves over to fornication G1608 and "going after strange flesh" Jude 1:7. As a direct result of this behavior, they are "set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire" Jude 1:7.
Several related words in the surrounding text clarify the meaning and consequence of G1608:
- G4670 Sódoma (Sodom): The city identified as giving themselves over to fornication, serving as a warning Jude 1:7.
- G2087 héteros (strange): This word describes the type of flesh G4561 that was pursued, indicating it was different or other Jude 1:7.
- G1164 deîgma (example): This term defines the purpose of the cities' fate; they are "set forth for an example" as a specimen of the consequence of such actions Jude 1:7.
- G1349 díkē (vengeance): Refers to the punishment or justice executed upon the cities for their actions, described as suffering the vengeance of eternal fire Jude 1:7.
- G166 aiṓnios (eternal): This word describes the perpetual nature of the punishment, specifically the eternal fire Jude 1:7.
The theological weight of G1608 is concentrated in its single, powerful use.
- Utter Unchastity: The term signifies a complete surrender to fornication, as the cities are depicted as giving themselves over to it Jude 1:7.
- Divine Judgment: The act described by G1608 is inextricably linked to its consequence. The cities that engaged in this behavior are made an example G1164 by suffering G5254 the vengeance G1349 of eternal G166 fire G4442.
- Unnatural Desire: The fornication is further characterized as "going after G3694 strange G2087 flesh G4561," establishing the context of the transgression Jude 1:7.
In summary, G1608 ekporneúō is a specific and potent term used only once in Scripture. It describes the act of being "utterly unchaste" and is exemplified by Sodom and Gomorrah. Its sole appearance serves as a stark illustration of how giving oneself over to fornication, specifically by going after strange flesh, results in being set forth as an example of divine vengeance and eternal judgment Jude 1:7.
TRV