### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **lýsis**, represented by `{{G3080}}`, defines a **loosening** and is used specially to mean **divorce**. It is a very specific term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 verse** in the entire New Testament. Its sole usage defines a release from a marital bond.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{G3080}}` is found in a passage about marriage and contentment. In the context of advising believers about their state, the Apostle Paul asks, "Art thou bound unto a wife? seek not to be **loosed**" [[1 Corinthians 7:27]]. Here, **lýsis** directly signifies a release or separation from the marriage covenant, standing in contrast to the state of being "bound" to a spouse.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{G3080}}` is further clarified by its root verb and its direct opposite:
* `{{G3089}}` **lýō** (to "loosen"): This is the primary verb from which **lýsis** is derived. It has a broad range of applications, including to "break," "destroy," or "dissolve." Its usage can be seen in the context of destroying the devil's works [[1 John 3:8]] or when Christ is described as having "broken down" the middle wall of partition [[Ephesians 2:14]]. The verb form is also used in the same verse as `{{G3080}}`, "Art thou **loosed** from a wife?" [[1 Corinthians 7:27]].
* `{{G1210}}` **déō** (to bind): This verb serves as the antonym to **lýō** and **lýsis**. It means to bind or tie, both literally and figuratively. Its direct relevance is seen in the same verse, "Art thou **bound** `{{G1210}}` unto a wife?" [[1 Corinthians 7:27]], establishing the core contrast. This marital binding is also described as a legal state in other passages [[Romans 7:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3080}}` is highly specific and derives from its context.
* **Release from a Bond:** The word provides the specific noun for the concept of divorce or separation. Its use in [[1 Corinthians 7:27]] is part of a larger discussion about serving the Lord without distraction, framing the "loosening" as a change of status.
* **Contrast with Legal Binding:** The significance of the "loosening" is understood in opposition to being "bound" `{{G1210}}`. This binding is not merely social but is linked to the law, as a woman is "bound by the law to her husband" [[Romans 7:2]]. Therefore, **lýsis** represents a release from this legal and spiritual obligation.
* **Specific Application:** Unlike its versatile root verb **lýō** `{{G3089}}`, which is used for cosmic events like melting elements [[2 Peter 3:10]] and spiritual victories like loosing the pains of death [[Acts 2:24]], the noun `{{G3080}}` is narrowly applied to the singular issue of marital status.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3080}}` is a precise and rare term for **loosening** or **divorce**. Its only scriptural appearance in [[1 Corinthians 7:27]] places it at the center of a key teaching on marriage, singleness, and contentment. While its root verb **lýō** `{{G3089}}` has broad applications, **lýsis** is reserved for the specific context of being released from a marital bond, underscoring the weight of both the binding and the loosening of that covenant.
TRV