### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epithymía**, represented by `{{G1939}}`, describes **a longing**, with a particular emphasis on desires for that which is forbidden. It appears **38 times** across **37 unique verses** in the Bible. While it can occasionally denote a neutral or even righteous desire, its primary usage points toward concupiscence and lust, a craving that originates from a fallen nature.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1939}}` is frequently contrasted with a life led by the Spirit. It is identified as the "lust of the flesh," which believers are instructed not to fulfill [[Galatians 5:16]]. These longings are categorized as worldly, distinct from the Father, and part of a corrupting influence that must be denied ([[1 John 2:16]], [[Titus 2:12]]). The word is central to the process of temptation, where a person is "drawn away of his own **lust**, and enticed" [[James 1:14]]. However, in a few contexts, it carries a positive meaning, such as Paul expressing his "desire to depart, and to be with Christ" [[Philippians 1:23]] or Jesus's desire to eat the Passover with his disciples [[Luke 22:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature and context of `{{G1939}}`:
* `{{G4561}}` **sárx** (flesh): This term often refers to human nature with its frailties and passions. It is frequently the source of forbidden desires, as seen in the phrase "fleshly **lusts**, which war against the soul" [[1 Peter 2:11]].
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía** (a sin): This is the direct result of unchecked desire. Scripture shows a clear progression where **lust**, when it has conceived, brings forth **sin** [[James 1:15]].
* `{{G1937}}` **epithyméō** (to set the heart upon): As the verb form from which `{{G1939}}` is derived, it describes the action of longing or coveting. Paul notes that he would not have known what **lust** was if the law had not said, "Thou shalt not **covet**" [[Romans 7:7]].
* `{{G539}}` **apátē** (delusion): This word highlights the deceptive nature of sinful desires. The "old man" is described as corrupt according to "deceitful **lusts**" [[Ephesians 4:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1939}}` is significant in understanding the human condition and the path of sanctification.
* **The Root of Sin:** `{{G1939}}` is presented as an internal source of temptation that gives birth to **sin**, which in turn leads to death. This process begins with one's own lust [[James 1:14-15]].
* **Conflict with God's Will:** Worldly **lusts** are part of what believers are taught to deny in order to live righteously [[Titus 2:12]]. These desires are aligned with the world, which "passeth away," in contrast to the one who does the **will** `{{G2307}}` of God [[1 John 2:17]].
* **The Flesh vs. The Spirit:** Scripture establishes a fundamental conflict between walking in the Spirit and fulfilling the **lust** of the **flesh** `{{G4561}}`. Those who belong to Christ have "crucified the flesh with the affections and **lusts**" [[Galatians 5:24]].
* **Source of Corruption:** `{{G1939}}` is the mechanism through which the **corruption** `{{G5356}}` of the world exerts its influence. By partaking in the divine nature, believers escape this corruption [[2 Peter 1:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1939}}` is a critical term for understanding the internal battle against forbidden desire. While it can rarely describe a strong, positive longing, it overwhelmingly refers to carnal, worldly, and deceitful lusts that stand in opposition to God. It is identified as the root of temptation and sin, the defining characteristic of the flesh, and a corrupting influence that believers are called to mortify and flee from through the power of the Spirit.
TRV