The Greek word moicheía, represented by G3430, provides the specific term for adultery. It is derived from the word μοιχεύω and appears 4 times in 4 unique verses within the scriptures. Its limited but potent usage highlights its significance as a serious moral transgression.
In biblical usage, G3430 is consistently presented as a grave sin originating from within. In both Matthew and Mark, adulteries are listed among the evil thoughts that proceed "out of the heart" (Matthew 15:19, Mark 7:21). Paul also includes Adultery as one of the manifest "works of the flesh" in his letter to the Galatians Galatians 5:19. The term is also used in a direct, narrative sense, as when the scribes and Pharisees brought a woman who was "taken in adultery" John 8:3.
Several related words help contextualize the meaning of adultery by appearing alongside it in lists of transgressions:
- G4202 porneía: Defined as "harlotry (including adultery and incest); figuratively, idolatry:--fornication." It is frequently listed with adultery, indicating a close relationship between general sexual immorality and the specific act of adultery (Matthew 15:19, Mark 7:21, Galatians 5:19).
- G5408 phónos: Meaning "murder:--murder, + be slain with, slaughter." Its inclusion in the same list as adulteries emphasizes the severity of the offense, placing it alongside sins that destroy life (Matthew 15:19, Mark 7:21).
- G167 akatharsía: This term for "impurity (the quality), physically or morally:--uncleanness" is also listed with adultery, broadening the context to include a state of moral defilement Galatians 5:19.
- G2829 klopḗ: Meaning "stealing:--theft." This word appears in the list of evils that proceed from the heart, situating adultery among violations against one's neighbor Matthew 15:19.
The theological weight of G3430 is demonstrated by its consistent framing within scripture.
- A Sin of the Heart: The term is explicitly linked to the inner person, defined as an evil that "proceed out of the heart" (Matthew 15:19, Mark 7:21). This establishes adultery not merely as an action, but as a symptom of internal corruption.
- A Work of the Flesh: By classifying Adultery as one of "the works of the flesh," the Bible contrasts it with a life led by the Spirit, marking it as antithetical to holiness Galatians 5:19.
- A Grave Transgression: Its consistent placement alongside sins like murders, fornications, thefts, and blasphemies underscores its status as a serious moral and spiritual failing Matthew 15:19.
In summary, G3430 is a precise term for adultery that, while used sparingly, carries immense significance. It is portrayed not as an isolated mistake but as a profound moral failure originating from the human heart. Scripture consistently lists it among the "works of the flesh" and other grave sins, solidifying its role as a serious violation of divine and moral law.
TRV