from Α (as a negative particle) and a presumed derivative of καθαίρω (meaning cleansed); impure (ceremonially, morally (lewd) or specially, (demonic)):--foul, unclean.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **akáthartos**, represented by `{{G169}}`, defines a state of being **impure** or **unclean**. It appears **30 times** across **29 unique verses** and is derived from a negative particle and a word for "cleansed," thus literally meaning not cleansed. It describes impurity in three primary contexts: ceremonial, moral, and demonic, where it is often translated as **foul** or **unclean**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G169}}` is most frequently used to describe **unclean** spirits (pneuma). These demonic entities are a source of affliction and torment, as seen in the accounts of men possessed by an **unclean** spirit ([[Mark 1:23]]; [[Mark 5:2]]). These spirits consistently recognize the divine identity of Jesus, crying out that he is the "Son of God" [[Mark 3:11]]. The term also carries significant weight in a ceremonial sense. In a pivotal vision, Peter is commanded by God not to call any man common or **unclean** [[Acts 10:28]], expanding the concept beyond Jewish dietary law. Furthermore, `akáthartos` denotes moral impurity, as an **unclean person** is listed among those who have no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ [[Ephesians 5:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of what is considered **unclean**:
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (a current of air... a spirit...): This word is constantly paired with `akáthartos` to form the phrase "**unclean** spirit" [[Matthew 10:1]]. This combination specifies that the impurity is of a spiritual and often demonic nature, requiring supernatural power to address.
* `{{G2839}}` **koinós** (common, i.e. ... ceremonially profane): This term is used in parallel with `akáthartos` to describe what is ritually impure under the Law. Peter declares he has never eaten anything "**common** or **unclean**" [[Acts 10:14]], showing the close association of these terms in a ceremonial context.
* `{{G1140}}` **daimónion** (a dæmonic being...): This word identifies the source of demonic impurity. In the synagogue, a man possessed a "spirit of an **unclean** devil" [[Luke 4:33]], directly linking demonic beings with the state of being `{{G169}}`.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G169}}` is demonstrated in several key areas:
* **Christ's Authority Over Evil:** The Gospels repeatedly use the term **unclean** spirit to establish Christ's supreme power. People were amazed that with authority and power He commands the **unclean** spirits, and they come out [[Luke 4:36]]. He then grants this same authority to His disciples [[Mark 6:7]].
* **Redefinition of Purity:** `akáthartos` is central to the transition from the Old Covenant's ceremonial laws to the New Covenant's spiritual reality. Through Peter's vision, God redefines purity, showing that no person should be considered inherently **unclean** [[Acts 10:28]], thus opening the gospel to the Gentiles.
* **Call to Moral Sanctification:** The term is used to describe the moral defilement that separates one from God. Paul warns that an **unclean person** will not inherit God's kingdom [[Ephesians 5:5]] and calls on believers to separate themselves by not touching any **unclean** thing [[2 Corinthians 6:17]]. This contrasts with the sanctifying effect of faith, where children in a mixed-faith home are considered holy, not **unclean** [[1 Corinthians 7:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G169}}` **akáthartos** is a critical term that moves from a specific ceremonial context to a broad theological principle. It is used to illustrate the power of Christ over demonic forces, to mark the shift from the Law to grace, and to define the moral purity required of believers. The word demonstrates the profound conflict between the holy and the profane, and highlights the unique power of Christ to cleanse, heal, and sanctify what was once considered **unclean**.
TRV