### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **páthos**, represented by `{{G3806}}`, describes a form of suffering or passion. It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its definition points to a subjective passion, particularly concupiscence, and is translated as **(inordinate) affection** or **lust**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural occurrences, `{{G3806}}` consistently refers to improper or sinful passions. In [[Romans 1:26]], it is used to describe the "vile **affections**" to which God gave people up as a consequence of their rebellion. [[Colossians 3:5]] includes "inordinate **affection**" in a list of earthly behaviors that believers must mortify, alongside fornication and uncleanness. Similarly, [[1 Thessalonians 4:5]] warns against living in the "**lust** of concupiscence," which characterizes those who do not know God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of `{{G3806}}`:
* `{{G1939}}` **epithymía** (a longing (especially for what is forbidden)): This word is paired directly with `{{G3806}}` in [[1 Thessalonians 4:5]] to form the phrase "lust of **concupiscence**" and appears in the same list of sins in [[Colossians 3:5]].
* `{{G819}}` **atimía** (infamy, i.e. (subjectively) comparative indignity, (objectively) disgrace): This term is used to modify `{{G3806}}` in [[Romans 1:26]], describing the passions as "vile **affections**," or affections of disgrace.
* `{{G3499}}` **nekróō** (to deaden, i.e. (figuratively) to subdue): This is the command given to believers in [[Colossians 3:5]], instructing them to **mortify** the parts of their old nature, which include inordinate affection `{{G3806}}`.
* `{{G167}}` **akatharsía** (impurity (the quality), physically or morally): This word for **uncleanness** is listed directly beside `{{G3806}}` in [[Colossians 3:5]], placing it within a category of moral impurity.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3806}}` is significant in understanding the nature of sin and sanctification.
* **Result of Divine Judgment:** The passion of `{{G3806}}` is presented as a consequence of humanity's choice to reject God. [[Romans 1:26]] states that "God gave them up unto vile **affections**" after they "changed the truth of God into a lie" [[Romans 1:25]].
* **Element of the Sinful Nature:** It is identified as one of the earthly "members" that must be put to death by a believer [[Colossians 3:5]]. This frames it as a characteristic of the flesh that is opposed to the new life in Christ.
* **Contrast to a Godly Life:** The "lust" described by `{{G3806}}` is a defining mark of those who do not know God [[1 Thessalonians 4:5]], standing in stark opposition to a life of holiness and sanctification.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3806}}` is a focused term for passions and affections that are contrary to God's will. Though used sparingly, its context in each case is potent. It describes affections that are not merely misguided but are "vile" [[Romans 1:26]], part of a lifestyle that must be put to death [[Colossians 3:5]], and characteristic of a life lived apart from God [[1 Thessalonians 4:5]]. The word serves to define an internal state of disordered desire that is a target for mortification in the life of a believer.
TRV