### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **akrasía**, represented by `{{G192}}`, defines a **want of self-restraint**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. This term, translated as both **excess** and **incontinency**, describes a critical lack of self-control.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G192}}` is applied in two distinct contexts. In Matthew, Jesus uses it to condemn the hypocrisy of the scribes and Pharisees, stating that while they appear clean outwardly, they are inwardly "full of extortion and **excess**" [[Matthew 23:25]]. In his letter to the Corinthians, Paul uses the word to mean **incontinency**, warning married couples not to abstain from one another for too long, lest Satan tempt them for their lack of self-control [[1 Corinthians 7:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{G192}}`:
* `{{G724}}` **harpagḗ** (extortion, ravening, spoiling): This term for **extortion** is directly paired with **excess** `{{G192}}` to describe the inner corruption of the Pharisees [[Matthew 23:25]].
* `{{G4859}}` **sýmphōnos** (consent): This word for agreement is the necessary condition for a married couple's temporary abstinence, a situation where they must guard against **incontinency** `{{G192}}` [[1 Corinthians 7:5]].
* `{{G3521}}` **nēsteía** (fasting): Abstinence for the purpose of **fasting** and prayer is the context in which Paul warns about the potential for temptation due to a lack of self-restraint `{{G192}}` [[1 Corinthians 7:5]].
* `{{G3985}}` **peirázō** (to test, tempt): This word highlights the direct consequence of `{{G192}}`, as Satan may **tempt** those who exhibit **incontinency** [[1 Corinthians 7:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G192}}` is seen in its application to both personal ethics and spiritual warfare.
* **Inner Corruption vs. Outward Piety:** The use of `{{G192}}` in Matthew reveals that a lack of self-restraint, or **excess**, is a mark of inner sin that nullifies outward religious acts. It is a key element in Jesus's critique of hypocrisy [[Matthew 23:25]].
* **A Gateway for Temptation:** In 1 Corinthians, **incontinency** `{{G192}}` is presented as a specific vulnerability within the marriage relationship that can be exploited by Satan. This makes self-control a matter of spiritual defense [[1 Corinthians 7:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G192}}` is a potent term for a lack of self-control that has serious moral and spiritual implications. Whether used to describe the hidden **excess** of a hypocrite or the **incontinency** that opens a door to temptation, **akrasía** underscores the biblical emphasis on governing one's internal desires as a core component of a faithful life.
TRV