### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **méthē**, represented by `{{G3178}}`, refers to an intoxicant and by implication, **intoxication** or drunkenness. As a primary word, it directly signifies this state. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently portrayed as a behavior to be avoided.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural occurrences, `{{G3178}}` is always presented within lists of vices that are contrary to a righteous life. It is cited as a cause for hearts to be "overcharged" alongside `surfeiting` `{{G2897}}`, leading to spiritual unpreparedness [[Luke 21:34]]. It is also listed as one of the works of the flesh, along with `revellings` `{{G2970}}`, with the explicit warning that "they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God" [[Galatians 5:21]]. Finally, believers are exhorted to walk honestly and not in "rioting and **drunkenness**," which are behaviors associated with the night rather than the day [[Romans 13:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are frequently associated with `{{G3178}}`, highlighting a broader pattern of indulgence and immoral conduct:
* `{{G2897}}` **kraipálē** (surfeiting): Defined as a debauch or glut, it is paired with `drunkenness` to describe a state of being overcharged and spiritually dulled by excess [[Luke 21:34]].
* `{{G2970}}` **kōmos** (revelling, rioting): Meaning a carousal, it appears alongside `drunkenness` to describe disorderly and unrestrained partying ([[Romans 13:13]], [[Galatians 5:21]]).
* `{{G2845}}` **koítē** (chambering): Referring to a bed or cohabitation, it is listed after `drunkenness` as a prohibited act, linking intoxication with sexual immorality [[Romans 13:13]].
* `{{G766}}` **asélgeia** (wantonness): Signifying licentiousness, it follows `chambering` in a list of vices to be avoided, suggesting a progression from drunkenness to unrestrained impurity [[Romans 13:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3178}}` is significant despite its infrequent use. It is framed as a serious spiritual danger.
* **Spiritual Unpreparedness:** Drunkenness is shown to weigh down the heart, making a person vulnerable and unaware of the Lord's return [[Luke 21:34]].
* **A Work of the Flesh:** It is explicitly categorized as a work of the flesh, in direct opposition to the life led by the Spirit [[Galatians 5:21]].
* **Bar to God's Kingdom:** The practice of `drunkenness` is presented as an activity that excludes a person from inheriting the kingdom of God [[Galatians 5:21]].
* **Conduct of Darkness:** The act is contrasted with walking "honestly, as in the day," identifying it as a deed of darkness that a believer must cast off [[Romans 13:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3178}}` is a concise term for drunkenness that is consistently used to denote sinful behavior. It is never mentioned in isolation but is always part of a collection of vices, including overindulgence, carousing, and sexual immorality. Theologically, it represents a state that dulls spiritual senses, is characteristic of a life lived apart from the Spirit, and is incompatible with inheriting God's kingdom.
TRV