### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kōmos**, represented by `{{G2970}}`, defines a **carousal (as if letting loose)** and is translated as **revelling** or **rioting**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The term consistently points to unrestrained festivities, wild parties, and a state of disorderly conduct that is contrary to a godly life.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2970}}` is always found within lists of vices that believers are called to abandon. In [[Romans 13:13]], it is presented as the opposite of walking honestly "as in the day," listed alongside behaviors such as **drunkenness** `{{G3178}}`, **chambering** `{{G2845}}`, and **strife** `{{G2054}}`. Similarly, it is included as one of the works of the flesh in [[Galatians 5:21]], with a warning that "they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God." In [[1 Peter 4:3]], **revellings** are described as part of the "will of the Gentiles," a past behavior that should no longer characterize the life of a Christian.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify the context and nature of **kōmos**:
* `{{G3178}}` **méthē** (an intoxicant, i.e. (by implication) intoxication:--drunkenness): This word is directly paired with **rioting** and **revellings**, emphasizing that these carousals are intrinsically linked to intoxication ([[Romans 13:13]], [[Galatians 5:21]]).
* `{{G766}}` **asélgeia** (licentiousness (sometimes including other vices):--filthy, lasciviousness, wantonness): The inclusion of this term alongside `{{G2970}}` highlights the unrestrained and often sexually immoral nature of such revelry ([[Romans 13:13]], [[1 Peter 4:3]]).
* `{{G4224}}` **pótos** (a drinking-bout or carousal:--banqueting): Used in the same list as **revellings**, this word further defines the activity as a drinking-bout, reinforcing the theme of excessive indulgence [[1 Peter 4:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2970}}` is found in its clear depiction of a lifestyle at odds with God's will.
* **A Work of the Flesh:** **Revellings** are explicitly categorized as a work of the flesh, the result of a life lived apart from the Spirit, which bars one from God's kingdom [[Galatians 5:21]].
* **Conduct of Darkness:** The term is associated with behaviors of the "night" that must be cast off in favor of living honestly in the "day," symbolizing a move from spiritual ignorance to the light of Christ [[Romans 13:13]].
* **A Forsaken Past:** It is used to characterize the former life of believers, which was lived according to the "will of the Gentiles." Scripture asserts that the time for such conduct is now past [[1 Peter 4:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2970}}` is far more than a simple reference to a party. It is a potent biblical term for a pattern of unrestrained, disorderly, and indulgent behavior that stands in direct opposition to Christian teaching. Its consistent placement alongside sins like drunkenness, sexual immorality, and strife underscores its seriousness and serves as a clear call for believers to abandon the works of the flesh for a life of self-control and holiness.
TRV