### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ēthos**, represented by `{{G2239}}`, refers to **moral habits** or **manners**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. As a strengthened form of a word meaning usage or custom, it specifically denotes the established character and moral conduct of a person.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical occurrence of `{{G2239}}` is found in [[1 Corinthians 15:33]], which delivers a direct and practical warning: "Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good **manners**." Here, **manners** does not simply mean politeness, but rather the essential moral habits and character of a believer. The verse establishes a clear cause-and-effect relationship, arguing that one's moral integrity is directly impacted by one's associations.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek words used alongside `{{G2239}}` in its only scriptural context help clarify its meaning:
* `{{G3657}}` **homilía** (communication): This term refers to companionship or intercourse. Its use in [[1 Corinthians 15:33]] points to close association, not just speech, as the vehicle for influence.
* `{{G2556}}` **kakós** (evil): Defined as worthless or depraved, this word modifies "communications," specifying that it is injurious and morally base companionship that destroys good habits [[1 Corinthians 15:33]].
* `{{G5351}}` **phtheírō** (corrupt): This word means to spoil, ruin, or deprave through moral influence. It describes the destructive process that evil company enacts upon good `{{G2239}}` [[1 Corinthians 15:33]].
* `{{G5543}}` **chrēstós** (good): Meaning useful in manner or morals, this term describes the positive and gracious moral habits that are endangered by negative influences [[1 Corinthians 15:33]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2239}}` is concentrated in its single, impactful use, which highlights a key principle of Christian living.
* **The Danger of Association:** The primary lesson from `{{G2239}}` is that a person's moral character is highly susceptible to the influence of their companions. The phrase "evil communications corrupt good manners" is presented as an undeniable truth [[1 Corinthians 15:33]].
* **A Call to be Undeceived:** The instruction is prefaced with the command "Be not deceived" `{{G4105}}`. This warns believers against naively assuming they are immune to the corrupting influence of others, a warning echoed elsewhere in scripture [[Galatians 6:7]].
* **Moral and Spiritual Decay:** The use of `{{G5351}}` (corrupt) connects the decay of moral habits to a deeper spiritual ruin. This same word describes the corruption of the mind [[2 Corinthians 11:3]] and the state of the "old man" [[Ephesians 4:22]], framing the warning as a matter of spiritual integrity.
### Summary
In summary, though `{{G2239}}` is one of the rarest words in the New Testament, it anchors a vital and timeless piece of wisdom. It defines **manners** as the substance of our moral habits and character. Its sole appearance serves as a potent and focused caution that one's moral life can be spoiled and ruined by injurious companionship, urging believers to exercise wisdom and vigilance in their relationships.
TRV