### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **porneía**, represented by `{{G4202}}`, is a significant term for **harlotry**. It appears **26 times** across **25 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from πορνεύω, its definition includes adultery, incest, and, in a figurative sense, idolatry. The common English translation is fornication.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4202}}` is frequently included in lists of sins that originate from a corrupt heart, alongside acts like murders, thefts, and adulteries ([[Matthew 15:19]], [[Mark 7:21]]). Believers are commanded to **flee** `{{G5343}}` from **fornication** [[1 Corinthians 6:18]] and to **abstain** `{{G567}}` from it as part of their **sanctification** `{{G38}}` [[1 Thessalonians 4:3]]. The term carries legal weight in the context of marriage, as it is the only cause given for which a man may **put away** `{{G630}}` his wife ([[Matthew 5:32]], [[Matthew 19:9]]). Figuratively, it is used extensively in Revelation to describe the spiritual unfaithfulness and corrupting influence of Babylon [[Revelation 14:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope and context of `{{G4202}}`:
* `{{G4203}}` **porneúō** (to act the harlot): This is the verb form of `{{G4202}}`, describing the action of committing fornication. It is used both literally and figuratively for practicing idolatry ([[1 Corinthians 6:18]], [[Revelation 18:3]]).
* `{{G4204}}` **pórnē** (a strumpet; figuratively, an idolater): This noun refers to the person, a harlot or whore, who engages in the act. In Revelation, the great **whore** `{{G4204}}` is judged for corrupting the earth with her **fornication** `{{G4202}}` [[Revelation 19:2]].
* `{{G167}}` **akatharsía** (impurity (the quality), physically or morally): Often listed alongside **fornication**, this term denotes a broader state of uncleanness. Both are presented as "works of the flesh" that believers must put away ([[Galatians 5:19]], [[Colossians 3:5]]).
* `{{G1495}}` **eidōlolatreía** (image-worship): This term for idolatry is the figurative counterpart to `{{G4202}}`. The definition of **porneía** explicitly includes idolatry, highlighting the biblical connection between sexual immorality and spiritual unfaithfulness [[Colossians 3:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4202}}` is significant, touching on Christian ethics, ecclesiology, and eschatology.
* **A Work of the Flesh:** **Fornication** is consistently categorized as a product of the sinful nature, in opposition to a life of holiness. It is listed as a work of the flesh in [[Galatians 5:19]] and is something from which believers must **abstain** `{{G567}}` to live in a way that pleases God [[1 Thessalonians 4:3]].
* **A Sin Against the Body:** A unique theological point is made that while other sins are outside the body, "he that committeth **fornication** `{{G4203}}` sinneth against his own body" [[1 Corinthians 6:18]]. The body is not intended for `{{G4202}}` but for the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` [[1 Corinthians 6:13]].
* **Symbol of Spiritual Corruption:** The concept of `{{G4202}}` is used powerfully in Revelation as a symbol for idolatry and the corrupting power of worldly systems. Babylon is depicted holding a golden **cup** `{{G4221}}` full of the "filthiness of her **fornication**," which has made all **nations** `{{G1484}}` drunk ([[Revelation 17:4]], [[Revelation 18:3]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4202}}` extends far beyond a simple definition of a sexual act. It is a foundational term for understanding biblical morality, representing a serious violation of God's will for purity. It defines actions that defile the individual, harm the community, and, in its most profound figurative sense, symbolize the ultimate spiritual betrayal of idolatry. Its use demonstrates how scripture links physical purity with spiritual faithfulness.
TRV