### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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