### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **malakós**, represented by `{{G3120}}`, means **soft**. It appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The word carries a dual meaning, referring literally to fine or **soft** clothing and figuratively to a catamite, translated as **effeminate**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{G3120}}` is used in two distinct contexts. In [[Matthew 11:8]] and [[Luke 7:25]], Jesus uses it literally to ask if the crowds went out to see a man clothed in **soft** raiment. He states that those who wear **soft** clothing and live **delicately** are found in **kings' houses** and **courts** ([[Matthew 11:8]], [[Luke 7:25]]). Figuratively, in [[1 Corinthians 6:9]], the term **effeminate** is used in a list of the **unrighteous** who will not **inherit** the **kingdom** of **God**, placing it among behaviors like fornication and idolatry.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G3120}}`:
* `{{G733}}` **arsenokoítēs** (abuser of (that defile) self with mankind): This term appears immediately following **effeminate** in the list of behaviors that exclude individuals from God's kingdom [[1 Corinthians 6:9]].
* `{{G5172}}` **tryphḗ** (delicately, riot): Used in [[Luke 7:25]], this word describes the lifestyle of those who wear **soft** and gorgeous apparel, associating fine clothing with luxury and debauchery.
* `{{G94}}` **ádikos** (unjust, unrighteous): This word provides the context for [[1 Corinthians 6:9]], establishing that the list including **effeminate** describes those who are **unrighteous** and will not inherit God's kingdom.
* `{{G2440}}` **himátion** (raiment): This is the specific noun described as **soft** in the questions posed by Jesus, clarifying the literal application of the word to clothing ([[Matthew 11:8]], [[Luke 7:25]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3120}}` is demonstrated through its contrasting applications.
* **Worldly Luxury vs. Spiritual Calling:** Jesus uses the image of **soft** raiment to distinguish the worldly status found in **kings' houses** from the rugged nature of a prophet like John the Baptist, highlighting a contrast between earthly comfort and a divine calling [[Matthew 11:8]].
* **A Bar to Inheritance:** In its figurative sense, **malakós** describes a character that is incompatible with the kingdom of God. Paul's warning is direct: be not deceived, for the **effeminate** will not **inherit** the kingdom [[1 Corinthians 6:9]].
* **Moral and Ethical Boundary:** By being listed with **fornicators** `{{G4205}}`, **idolaters** `{{G1496}}`, and **adulterers** `{{G3432}}`, the term is defined as a serious moral condition that is contrary to God's standard of righteousness.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3120}}` moves from a simple physical descriptor to a significant moral one. Whether referring to the **soft** clothing that signifies a life of luxury or the **effeminate** character that marks a person as **unrighteous**, the word serves as a biblical caution against both worldly indulgence and behaviors that exclude one from the **kingdom of God**.
TRV