### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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