### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **moichalís**, represented by `{{G3428}}`, is a term for an **adulteress**. According to its base definition, it can be used to describe unfaithfulness in both a literal and a figurative sense. It appears 7 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible, making it a specific but impactful word for condemning marital or spiritual infidelity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal application, `{{G3428}}` defines a woman who is unfaithful to her marriage vows. [[Romans 7:3]] states that if a woman is married to another man while her husband is still alive, "she shall be called an **adulteress**." However, the term is more frequently used figuratively to describe spiritual unfaithfulness. In both [[Matthew 12:39]] and [[Matthew 16:4]], the phrase "evil and **adulterous** generation" is used to rebuke those who demand signs instead of exercising faith. This figurative sense is also present in [[James 4:4]], which equates friendship with the world to spiritual adultery against God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and severity of being an **adulteress**:
* `{{G3432}}` **moichós** (adulterer): This is the direct male counterpart, meaning "a (male) paramour; figuratively, apostate." It is used alongside `{{G3428}}` in [[James 4:4]] to address both "adulterers and **adulteresses**."
* `{{G268}}` **hamartōlós** (sinful, i.e. a sinner): This word is paired with `{{G3428}}` in [[Mark 8:38]] to describe "this adulterous and **sinful** generation," linking spiritual infidelity directly to a state of sin.
* `{{G4190}}` **ponērós** (hurtful, i.e. evil): This term is used to describe the character of the "wicked and **adulterous** generation" in [[Matthew 16:4]], emphasizing the malevolent nature of their unfaithfulness.
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía** (a sin): In [[2 Peter 2:14]], having "eyes full of adultery" `{{G3428}}` is connected to an inability to cease from **sin**, highlighting the perpetual nature of this transgression.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3428}}` is centered on the concept of covenant relationship and faithfulness.
* **Literal Covenant Breaking:** The word's use in [[Romans 7:3]] establishes a baseline understanding of adultery as a violation of the sacred marriage covenant.
* **Spiritual Apostasy:** The term is elevated to a spiritual metaphor, portraying Israel's or humanity's unfaithfulness to God as a form of adultery. The "adulterous generation" [[Matthew 12:39]] is one that has broken its covenant with God.
* **Enmity with God:** [[James 4:4]] provides a stark theological definition, framing "friendship of the world" as an act of spiritual adultery that makes one an enemy of God.
* **Internal Corruption:** The description in [[2 Peter 2:14]] of having "eyes full of adultery" connects this unfaithfulness to an internal state of corruption, linked to covetousness `{{G4124}}` and an inability to cease from sin `{{G266}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3428}}` **moichalís** moves beyond a simple label for an unfaithful woman. While it holds a literal meaning within the context of marriage law, its primary biblical function is as a powerful metaphor for spiritual betrayal. It is used to condemn a generation's lack of faith, to define worldliness as a violation of one's relationship with God, and to characterize a heart that is fundamentally wicked and sinful.
TRV