The Greek word moicháō, represented by G3429, means to commit adultery. Derived from μοιχός, it is used in its middle voice. It appears 6 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible, specifically defining the act of adultery in the context of divorce and remarriage.
In the biblical narrative, G3429 is used exclusively to articulate the consequences of improper marital dissolution. It is stated that a man who puts away his wife, for any reason other than fornication, causes her to commit adultery Matthew 5:32. The same verse extends this definition, stating that anyone who marries a divorced woman also committeth adultery. This principle is reiterated, clarifying that a man who divorces his wife and marries another committeth adultery (Matthew 19:9, Mark 10:11). The term is also applied to women, specifying that if a woman puts away her husband and marries another, she committeth adultery Mark 10:12.
Several related words are crucial for understanding the context in which G3429 appears:
- G630 apolýō (to free fully... or (specially) divorce): This word is consistently translated as "put away" or "divorce" in the passages defining adultery. Its use in Matthew 5:32 and Matthew 19:9 directly precedes the act of G3429. The word also carries a broader meaning of "release" or "forgive" Luke 6:37.
- G1060 gaméō (to wed (of either sex)): This term for "marry" is intrinsically linked to G3429. The act of marrying another person after an illegitimate divorce is what constitutes committing adultery (Mark 10:11, Matthew 19:9).
- G4202 porneía (harlotry (including adultery and incest)): This word provides the sole exception for divorce given in the text. A marriage can be dissolved because of fornication without the subsequent remarriage being defined as adultery (Matthew 5:32, Matthew 19:9).
The theological weight of G3429 is centered on the New Testament's strict definition of marital fidelity.
- Adultery Defined by Remarriage: The use of G3429 expands the concept of adultery beyond a simple extramarital affair. It specifically includes the act of marrying another person after a divorce that is not on the grounds of fornication Matthew 19:9.
- Culpability in Divorce: The term highlights that divorcing a spouse for an illegitimate reason "causeth her to commit adultery," placing responsibility on the one initiating the separation Matthew 5:32.
- Equal Application to Men and Women: The law is applied reciprocally. While some passages focus on the husband's actions, Mark 10:12 makes it clear that a wife who initiates a divorce and remarries also "committeth adultery," establishing a standard of mutual accountability.
In summary, G3429 is a precise term that defines the act of committing adultery, almost exclusively within the framework of divorce and remarriage. Its meaning is inseparable from the related actions of putting away a spouse G630 and marrying another G1060, with the notable exception being for cases of fornication G4202. The word underscores a high standard of covenant faithfulness in marriage, holding both men and women accountable for their actions.
TRV