### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun μολυσμός (molysmós) `{{G3436}}` is derived from the verb μολύνω (molynō) `{{G3435}}`, meaning "to stain," "to defile," or "to pollute." Consequently, μολυσμός literally denotes a "stain" or "spot." However, its primary usage in biblical contexts, and indeed its sole New Testament occurrence, is figurative. It refers to moral or spiritual defilement, impurity, or corruption. It signifies a state of being morally tainted or polluted, encompassing both outward acts and inward dispositions. The term carries a strong sense of pervasive uncleanness that affects the very essence of one's being, distinguishing it from mere superficial dirt.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word μολυσμός `{{G3436}}` appears only once in the New Testament, in [[2 Corinthians 7:1]]. The Apostle Paul writes, "Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God."
In this pivotal verse, Paul exhorts the Corinthian believers to a life of purity and sanctification. The phrase "filthiness of the flesh" (μολυσμοῦ σαρκός) refers to outward immoralities, sensual sins, and any defilement that originates from or manifests through the physical body. This could include idolatrous practices, sexual immorality, gluttony, or other carnal excesses that pollute one's physical existence and actions.
Conversely, "filthiness of the spirit" (μολυσμοῦ πνεύματος) points to inward spiritual corruption. This encompasses defilement of the mind, will, and emotions, such as pride, malice, envy, bitterness, unholy thoughts, or idolatry of the heart. It speaks to the inner moral state that is contrary to God's holy character.
The context of [[2 Corinthians 7:1]] follows Paul's appeal for separation from unbelievers and idolatry in [[2 Corinthians 6:14-18]]. The "promises" mentioned at the beginning of [[2 Corinthians 7:1]] refer to God's promises of dwelling among His people, being their God, and receiving them as sons and daughters. These divine promises serve as a powerful motivation for believers to actively pursue cleansing and holiness. The call to "cleanse ourselves" implies a deliberate, ongoing effort on the part of the believer, empowered by God's grace, to purify their lives from these pervasive forms of defilement. The ultimate goal is "perfecting holiness in the fear of God," indicating a progressive journey towards greater conformity to Christ's image, motivated by reverent awe and submission to God.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field surrounding μολυσμός `{{G3436}}` includes several terms related to defilement, impurity, and their opposites:
* **Root Verb:** μολύνω (molynō) `{{G3435}}`: The verb from which μολυσμός is derived, meaning "to stain, defile, pollute." It appears in passages like [[Revelation 3:4]], where it refers to garments not being defiled.
* **Synonyms/Related Concepts for Defilement:**
* ἀκαθαρσία (akatharsia) `{{G167}}`: Uncleanness, impurity, often referring to moral or sexual impurity, but also ritual uncleanness. It is a broader term than μολυσμός.
* μίασμα (miasma) `{{G3393}}`: A defilement, pollution, often with connotations of ritual impurity or a pervasive moral stain.
* ῥύπος (rhupos) `{{G4509}}`: Filth, dirt, primarily physical, but can be used metaphorically for moral impurity.
* ἀσελγεία (aselgeia) `{{G766}}`: Licentiousness, sensuality, wantonness, often associated with flagrant sexual immorality.
* σαρκικὸς (sarkikos) `{{G4559}}`: Carnal, fleshly; describes the nature of the "filthiness of the flesh."
* πνευματικὸς (pneumatikos) `{{G4152}}`: Spiritual; in the context of μολυσμοῦ πνεύματος, it refers to the spiritual realm being defiled.
* **Antonyms/Opposite Concepts:**
* ἁγιωσύνη (hagiosynē) `{{G42}}`: Holiness, sanctification. This is the goal that stands in direct opposition to μολυσμός.
* καθαρισμός (katharismos) `{{G2511}}`: Cleansing, purification, the process by which μολυσμός is removed.
* ἁγνότης (hagnotēs) `{{G53}}`: Purity, chastity, often emphasizing moral and sexual purity.
### Theological Significance
The concept of μολυσμός `{{G3436}}` carries profound theological significance:
* **Pervasiveness of Sin:** The term highlights the deep and pervasive nature of sin, affecting not just outward actions but also the inner spiritual core of a person. The distinction between "filthiness of the flesh" and "filthiness of the spirit" underscores that sin corrupts the entire human being, leaving no part untouched.
* **Call to Holiness:** The exhortation in [[2 Corinthians 7:1]] is a direct and urgent call to holiness for believers. It emphasizes that sanctification is not merely a passive state but an active, ongoing process of purification from all forms of defilement. This pursuit of holiness is a necessary response to God's covenant promises and an expression of reverence for Him.
* **Holistic Sanctification:** Μολυσμός underscores the comprehensive nature of God's call to holiness. It demands purity in thought, motive, and emotion ("filthiness of the spirit"), as well as in word and deed ("filthiness of the flesh"). This holistic understanding of sanctification prevents any compartmentalization of faith where inner life is disconnected from outward behavior.
* **Divine Empowerment and Human Responsibility:** While believers are commanded to "cleanse ourselves," this is not a work of self-salvation. Rather, it is a response enabled by God's grace and promises. The "fear of God" implies a reliance on His power and a desire to live in a way that honors Him. Believers are responsible to align their will with God's, actively participating in the process of purification that the Holy Spirit works within them.
* **Ethical Implications:** The presence of μολυσμός necessitates a radical separation from the world's corrupting influences and a commitment to living a life that reflects God's purity. It calls for vigilance against both overt and subtle forms of sin that can pollute a believer's walk.
### Summary
Μολυσμός (molysmós) `{{G3436}}` is a potent Greek term signifying moral and spiritual defilement or "filthiness." Derived from the verb "to stain," it denotes a pervasive impurity that taints both the physical and spiritual dimensions of human existence. Its singular yet highly significant appearance in [[2 Corinthians 7:1]] serves as a crucial theological exhortation, urging believers to actively cleanse themselves from both "filthiness of the flesh" (outward immoralities) and "filthiness of the spirit" (inward corruptions). This call to purification is rooted in God's promises and motivated by the "fear of God," emphasizing a comprehensive and ongoing pursuit of holiness. Μολυσμός thus highlights the deep-seated nature of sin and the radical, holistic sanctification required of those who are called to belong to a holy God.
TRV