The Greek word andrapodistḗs, represented by G405, refers to an enslaver or menstealer. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. The term is derived from a compound meaning to bring men to one's feet, vividly capturing the act of subjugating and enslaving another person.
The sole biblical use of G405 is found in a list of transgressions that are contrary to God's law. In 1 Timothy 1:10, menstealers are named alongside "whoremongers," "them that defile themselves with mankind," "liars," and "perjured persons." This context establishes the act of enslaving people as a serious sin for which the law is intended, placing it among behaviors that violate sound doctrine.
Several related words appear in the same context, clarifying the nature of the offenses condemned in the passage:
- G4205 pórnos (fornicator, whoremonger): This term refers to a debauchee or male prostitute and is listed directly before menstealers in 1 Timothy 1:10.
- G733 arsenokoítēs (abuser of (that defile) self with mankind): Defined as a sodomite, this word identifies another form of sinful behavior listed in the same verse 1 Timothy 1:10.
- G5583 pseústēs (liar): Meaning a falsifier, this word follows menstealers in the list of those who act contrary to the law 1 Timothy 1:10.
- G1965 epíorkos (perjured person): This term for a forswearer is also included in the list of transgressions found in 1 Timothy 1:10.
The theological weight of G405 is established by its specific context within the law's purpose.
- A Sin Against Humanity: The act of being a menstealer is explicitly identified as a sin, condemning the practice of human trafficking and enslavement.
- Contrary to Sound Doctrine: The inclusion of menstealers in the list in 1 Timothy 1:10 confirms that such an action is fundamentally opposed to the principles of sound teaching.
- Grouping with Heinous Acts: By being placed alongside sins of sexual immorality and profound dishonesty, the Bible classifies enslavement as a grave offense against God and neighbor.
In summary, G405 is a highly specific term whose single appearance in scripture is powerful. As menstealer, its use in 1 Timothy 1:10 unequivocally frames the act of enslaving another person as a serious transgression. It is listed among a category of sins that are contrary to sound doctrine, cementing its status as an act condemned by divine law.
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