### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anáthema**, represented by `{{G331}}`, signifies a religious ban, a curse, or an excommunicated person or thing. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is derived from ἀνατίθεμαι and conveys a powerful sense of being devoted to destruction or set apart for judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G331}}` is used to express the most severe forms of spiritual condemnation. It serves as a stern warning against corrupting the gospel, declaring that anyone—even an **angel** `{{G32}}` from **heaven** `{{G3772}}`—who preaches another gospel should be **accursed** [[Galatians 1:8-9]]. The term also defines a fundamental spiritual allegiance; no one speaking by the Spirit of God can call **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` **accursed** [[1 Corinthians 12:3]]. Its use in [[1 Corinthians 16:22]], "let him be **Anathema** `{{G331}}` **Maranatha** `{{G3134}}`," links the curse to the Lord's coming judgment on those who do not love Him. The gravity of this separation is shown when Paul expresses his wish to be **accursed** `{{G331}}` from **Christ** `{{G5547}}` for the sake of his kinsmen [[Romans 9:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and weight of `{{G331}}`:
* `{{G332}}` **anathematízō** (to declare or vow under penalty of execration): This verb form shows the active process of invoking a curse. In Acts, men **bound** `{{G332}}` themselves with an oath and a great **curse** `{{G331}}` to **slay** `{{G615}}` Paul [[Acts 23:14]].
* `{{G2097}}` **euangelízō** (to announce good news): This word for preaching the gospel stands in direct opposition to the curse of `{{G331}}`. The curse is invoked specifically when a false gospel is **preached** `{{G2097}}` [[Galatians 1:9]].
* `{{G3134}}` **maràn athá** (an exclamation of the approaching divine judgment): The pairing of **Anathema** `{{G331}}` with **Maranatha** `{{G3134}}` in [[1 Corinthians 16:22]] directly connects the curse to the final judgment at the Lord's return.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G331}}` is centered on defining divine boundaries and consequences.
* **Guardian of Doctrine:** The term functions as a definitive protector of the gospel's integrity. To alter the gospel that was **received** `{{G3880}}` is to place oneself under a divine **curse** [[Galatians 1:9]], establishing a clear line against heresy.
* **Declaration of Separation:** Being **accursed** `{{G331}}` signifies a profound separation from **Christ** `{{G5547}}` and the community of faith. This is highlighted by Paul's lament in [[Romans 9:3]] and the declaration against those who do not love the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` **Christ** `{{G5547}}` [[1 Corinthians 16:22]].
* **Mark of Opposition to God:** The word is used to identify that which is fundamentally opposed to God. One cannot call **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` **accursed** `{{G331}}` while being influenced by the Holy Spirit, which instead leads to the confession of Jesus as **Lord** `{{G2962}}` [[1 Corinthians 12:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G331}}` is more than a simple imprecation; it is a declaration of being set apart for divine judgment. It is used to guard the truth of the gospel, to signify separation from **Christ** `{{G5547}}`, and to mark an allegiance contrary to God. The term **anáthema** thus serves as a solemn and powerful concept in scripture, outlining the ultimate consequences of rejecting God's revealed truth and love.
TRV