### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **amíantos**, represented by `{{G283}}`, means **unsoiled** or figuratively **pure**. It is defined as undefiled and derives from Α (as a negative particle) and a derivative of μιαίνω. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently signifying a state of purity free from moral or spiritual contamination.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G283}}` is applied to several distinct areas of Christian life and theology. It describes the character of the believer's inheritance, which is "incorruptible, and **undefiled**" [[1 Peter 1:4]]. It is used to define the nature of true religion, which is pure and **undefiled** before God when it involves both outward acts of compassion and inward purity [[James 1:27]]. The term also sets the standard for marital purity, stating the marriage bed is **undefiled** in contrast to adulterers, whom God will judge [[Hebrews 13:4]]. Finally, it describes the perfect nature of Christ as a high priest who is "holy, harmless, **undefiled**, separate from sinners" [[Hebrews 7:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of being undefiled:
* `{{G862}}` **áphthartos** (incorruptible): Meaning "undecaying (in essence or continuance)," this word is used alongside `{{G283}}` to describe the believer's eternal **inheritance** as something that will not spoil or fade [[1 Peter 1:4]].
* `{{G3741}}` **hósios** (holy): This term, defined as "right (by intrinsic or divine character)," appears with `{{G283}}` to characterize the high priest who is **holy** and undefiled, highlighting a state of divine and moral perfection [[Hebrews 7:26]].
* `{{G784}}` **áspilos** (unspotted): Meaning "unblemished (physically or morally)," this word is used to describe the personal purity required in an undefiled religion, which includes keeping oneself **unspotted** from the world [[James 1:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G283}}` is focused on the biblical standard of purity.
* **Christological Perfection:** The word is crucial in describing the sinless nature of Christ. As the high priest, His **undefiled** character makes Him perfectly suited to be "separate from sinners" and intercede on their behalf [[Hebrews 7:26]].
* **The Nature of True Worship:** James uses `{{G283}}` to contrast true religion with empty ceremony. **Undefiled** religion is active, involving care for the "fatherless and widows in their affliction," and a commitment "to keep himself unspotted from the world" [[James 1:27]].
* **Ethical Purity:** The term establishes a divine standard for sexual morality within the covenant of marriage. By describing the marriage bed as **undefiled**, the scripture sets it apart as honorable, in stark contrast to the acts of "whoremongers and adulterers" whom God will judge [[Hebrews 13:4]].
* **Eschatological Hope:** The believer's future hope is described as an inheritance that is **undefiled** [[1 Peter 1:4]]. This points to the perfect and eternal nature of heaven, which is preserved and cannot be contaminated by sin or decay.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G283}}` is a concise but powerful term for absolute purity. Though used only four times, it carries significant weight by defining the perfect character of Christ, the practical nature of true religion, the sanctity of marriage, and the incorruptible quality of the believer’s eternal inheritance. It illustrates a standard of being unsoiled and unblemished that is both an attribute of God and a high calling for his followers.
TRV