μοιχάω

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

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.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

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.

Related Words & Concepts

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).

Theological Significance

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.

Summary

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.