### 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.
TRV