### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ἐξαπατάω (exapatáō)**, represented by `{{G1818}}`, means to **seduce wholly** or to **beguile**. It appears 7 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. The word denotes a thorough and complete deception, not merely a simple trick, but a fundamental leading astray from a state of truth or simplicity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural usage, `{{G1818}}` describes deception at critical junctures. Its most foundational use references the serpent who **beguiled** Eve through his subtilty, an act which Paul fears could be repeated to corrupt the minds of believers away from Christ [[2 Corinthians 11:3]]. The term is also used to describe the power of sin, which, taking occasion by the commandment, **deceived** and ultimately slew the individual [[Romans 7:11]]. Believers are warned not to **deceive** themselves regarding worldly wisdom [[1 Corinthians 3:18]] and to be wary of those who use "good words and fair speeches" to **deceive** the hearts of the simple [[Romans 16:18]]. Furthermore, it is used in an eschatological warning that no one should be **deceived**, for a "falling away" must come before the man of sin is revealed [[2 Thessalonians 2:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the methods and consequences of this complete deception:
* `{{G3789}}` **óphis** (serpent): This word, used for the agent of the original deception, figuratively represents an artful, malicious person, especially Satan [[2 Corinthians 11:3]].
* `{{G3834}}` **panourgía** (craftiness): Described as adroitness in a bad sense, such as trickery or sophistry, this is the method the serpent used to beguile Eve [[2 Corinthians 11:3]].
* `{{G5542}}` **chrēstología** (good words): This term for fair speech or plausibility is a tool used by false teachers to deceive the hearts of the simple [[Romans 16:18]].
* `{{G5351}}` **phtheírō** (corrupt): This word describes the result of being wholly seduced. Paul fears believers' minds will be **corrupted** just as Eve's was [[2 Corinthians 11:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1818}}` is significant, highlighting a constant spiritual danger.
* **The Archetype of Deception:** The word is tied directly to the fall of humanity, where the serpent **beguiled** Eve. This event serves as the primary biblical example of being wholly seduced from a state of simplicity and obedience [[2 Corinthians 11:3]].
* **The Agent of Spiritual Death:** Sin itself is personified as a deceptive agent that uses God's own commandment to **deceive** and bring about death, illustrating the profound and insidious nature of sin's power [[Romans 7:11]].
* **A Warning Against False Teachers:** The term is a caution against those who do not serve Christ but use plausible speech to **deceive** the unsuspecting, targeting their hearts and leading them astray [[Romans 16:18]].
* **An End-Times Indicator:** The act of deception is presented as a precursor to major eschatological events, specifically the "falling away" and the revealing of the "man of sin" [[2 Thessalonians 2:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1818}}` carries a grave meaning beyond simple falsehood. It represents a total seduction that can corrupt the mind, empower sin, and lead to spiritual death. From the original beguiling in the garden to warnings about the last days, **ἐξαπατάω** serves as a potent biblical reminder of the need for discernment and steadfastness in the face of influences that seek to draw believers away from the simplicity found in Christ.
TRV