The Greek word moicheúō, represented by G3431, is a direct term meaning to commit adultery. It appears 22 times across 11 unique verses, primarily serving as a key prohibition within biblical law and moral teaching. Its use establishes a clear standard for marital fidelity.
In scripture, G3431 is most frequently cited as one of the core commandments. It is consistently listed alongside prohibitions such as "Do not kill," "Do not steal," and "Do not bear false witness" (Mark 10:19, Romans 13:9). Jesus references this command directly, first by quoting the law as it was known "by them of old time" Matthew 5:27, and then by expanding its meaning. He teaches that anyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery in his heart Matthew 5:28. The term is also applied to situations of divorce and remarriage, where marrying a person who has been put away from their spouse is defined as committing adultery Luke 16:18.
Several related words help clarify the scope and context of committing adultery:
- G1937 epithyméō (to set the heart upon, i.e. long for (rightfully or otherwise):--covet, desire, would fain, lust (after)): This word is crucially linked to adultery by redefining the sin not just as a physical act but as an internal desire. To lust after a woman is equated with having already committed adultery in the heart Matthew 5:28.
- G630 apolýō (to free fully, i.e. (literally) relieve, release, dismiss (reflexively, depart), or (figuratively) let die, pardon or (specially) divorce): This term for divorce is directly connected to adultery. To put away a spouse and marry another is to commit adultery Luke 16:18.
- G5407 phoneúō (to be a murderer (of):--kill, do murder, slay): This command is often paired with the prohibition against adultery. Its inclusion highlights how adultery is seen as a serious transgression on par with murder James 2:11.
- G3848 parabátēs (from παραβαίνω; a violator:--breaker, transgress(-or)): This describes the status of one who breaks the law. A person who does not commit adultery but does kill has still become a transgressor of the law James 2:11.
The theological weight of G3431 is significant, defining both sin and righteousness.
- The Internalization of Law: The concept of adultery is elevated from a mere external action to a matter of internal purity. Jesus' teaching makes it clear that sin begins in the heart with lustful desire Matthew 5:28.
- The Unity of the Law: Adultery is used as a prime example to illustrate that God's law is a single, unified whole. To break one commandment is to be guilty of breaking all of them, making one a transgressor of the law James 2:11.
- Consequences and Repentance: The act of committing adultery is shown to have severe spiritual consequences, leading to "great tribulation" for those who do not repent of their deeds Revelation 2:22.
- Hypocrisy Exposed: The command is used rhetorically to expose religious hypocrisy. One who teaches that others should not commit adultery while doing so themselves is condemned Romans 2:22.
In summary, G3431 is far more than a simple prohibition. It is a cornerstone of biblical morality that defines the sanctity of the marital covenant. Its meaning is expanded from a physical transgression to a sin of the heart, establishing a higher standard of righteousness. As a key component of the law, it illustrates the nature of sin, the necessity of internal purity, and the serious consequences of violating God's commands.
TRV