ἀκαθάρτης

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word akathártēs, represented by G168, denotes filthiness. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Derived from ἀκάθαρτος, it describes a state of moral impurity.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The sole appearance of G168 is in the symbolic imagery of Revelation. It is used to describe the contents of a golden cup held by the woman arrayed in purple and scarlet. The cup is "full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication" Revelation 17:4, portraying a state of extreme moral corruption and defilement.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words provide context for the profound impurity described by G168:

• G946 bdélygma (a detestation, i.e. (specially) idolatry:--abomination): This word appears alongside G168 in Revelation 17:4. It represents things that are detestable to God, such as what is highly esteemed by men but is an abomination in God's sight Luke 16:15.
• G4202 porneía (harlotry (including adultery and incest); figuratively, idolatry:--fornication): This term is explicitly connected to G168 in the phrase "filthiness of her fornication" Revelation 17:4. It is listed as a work of the flesh Galatians 5:19 and a sin to be fled from 1 Corinthians 6:18.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G168 is concentrated in its singular, powerful usage.

• A State of Moral Corruption: G168 signifies more than just individual impure acts; it describes a fundamental state of moral filthiness and defilement.
• Symbol of Deception: Its use in Revelation 17:4, contained within a "golden cup," suggests a corruption that is deceptively packaged, appearing valuable on the outside but filled with impurity.
• Connection to Idolatry and Immorality: The word is intrinsically linked with abominations G946 and fornication G4202, illustrating a theological connection between idolatry and moral impurity, as the woman is the "MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH" Revelation 17:5.

Summary

In summary, G168 is a potent and specific term for moral filthiness. Though it appears only once, its placement in Revelation 17:4 gives it significant theological weight. It defines the very nature of the spiritual corruption symbolized by Babylon the Great, illustrating how outward splendor can hide a state of profound defilement and abomination.