### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **koinóō**, represented by `{{G2840}}`, defines the act of making something ceremonially **profane** or **unclean**. It appears 17 times across 12 unique verses in the Bible. Its core meaning is to make or consider something profane, and it is translated as to defile, pollute, or call common.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospels, `{{G2840}}` is used by Jesus to redefine the nature of purity. He teaches that it is not what enters the mouth that **defileth** a person, but what comes out of the heart ([[Matthew 15:11]], [[Matthew 15:18]]). This principle is emphasized repeatedly, stating that evil things coming from within are what truly **defile** the man [[Mark 7:23]]. The term is also used in a ceremonial context, such as in Peter's vision where a voice from heaven commands, "What God hath cleansed, that **call** not thou **common**" ([[Acts 10:15]], [[Acts 11:9]]). It is also used in the accusation against Paul, who was charged with having **polluted** the holy temple by bringing Greeks into it [[Acts 21:28]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a contrast to `koinóō`, highlighting the concepts of purity and holiness:
* `{{G2511}}` **katharízō** (to cleanse, purge, purify): This word serves as a direct antonym. It is used in God's command to Peter, "What God hath **cleansed**, that call not thou common" [[Acts 10:15]]. The blood of Jesus Christ is said to **cleanse** us from all sin [[1 John 1:7]].
* `{{G37}}` **hagiázō** (to make holy, purify, consecrate; sanctify): This describes the act of setting something apart as holy, the opposite of making it profane. In Hebrews, it is used to explain that Old Covenant sacrifices could **sanctify** the unclean for the purifying of the flesh [[Hebrews 9:13]].
* `{{G2514}}` **katharótēs** (cleanness (ceremonially); purification): This noun refers to the state of achieved cleanness. It appears in direct connection with `{{G2840}}` to describe the goal of Old Testament rituals, which led to "the **purifying** of the flesh" [[Hebrews 9:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2840}}` is significant, particularly in the transition from Old Covenant ceremony to New Covenant reality.
* **Redefining Defilement:** Jesus uses `koinóō` to pivot the focus of purity from external rituals to internal morality. The things that truly **defile** a person are not foods but the evil things which "come from within" the heart [[Mark 7:23]].
* **God's Authority to Cleanse:** The use of `koinóō` in Peter's vision establishes God's absolute power to make clean what was previously considered common or unclean by ceremonial law, opening the way for the gospel to the Gentiles [[Acts 10:15]].
* **Ultimate Purity:** The word emphasizes the absolute holiness required to enter God's presence. The description of the New Jerusalem states that nothing that **defileth** will be allowed to enter, signifying a final and perfect state free from all sin [[Revelation 21:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2840}}` is a crucial term for understanding the biblical concept of defilement. Its meaning progresses from the ceremonial pollution of places and people under the law ([[Acts 21:28]], [[Hebrews 9:13]]) to the internal, moral impurity that Jesus identified as the true source of uncleanness [[Matthew 15:18]]. It illustrates a major theological shift, teaching that true purity is a matter of the heart, is accomplished by God alone, and is essential for entering His eternal kingdom.
TRV