### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pórnos**, represented by `{{G4205}}`, refers to a **fornicator** or **whoremonger**. Derived from a word meaning "to sell," its base definition is a (male) prostitute, and by analogy, a debauchee or libertine. It appears **10 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently identifying a type of behavior that is contrary to divine law.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4205}}` is almost always found in lists of behaviors that characterize those who are subject to judgment and excluded from God's kingdom. For instance, it is stated that **fornicators** will not inherit the kingdom of God [[1 Corinthians 6:9]] and have no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God [[Ephesians 5:5]]. The word is used to instruct believers not to keep company with a brother who is a **fornicator** [[1 Corinthians 5:11]]. The term also carries a broader sense of moral defilement, as when Esau is described as a **fornicator** or profane person for selling his birthright [[Hebrews 12:16]]. Ultimately, scripture warns that God will judge **whoremongers** [[Hebrews 13:4]] and that their part will be in the lake of fire [[Revelation 21:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the context in which `{{G4205}}` is used:
* `{{G3432}}` **moichós** (adulterer): This term for a male paramour is frequently listed alongside **pórnos**, distinguishing between general sexual immorality and the specific sin of adultery. They appear together in warnings about who will not inherit God's kingdom [[1 Corinthians 6:9]] and who will face judgment [[Hebrews 13:4]].
* `{{G1496}}` **eidōlolátrēs** (idolater): An image-worshipper. This word's frequent pairing with **fornicator** links sexual immorality with spiritual unfaithfulness, as seen in lists of those who are outside the kingdom of God ([[1 Corinthians 6:9]], [[Ephesians 5:5]], [[Revelation 22:15]]).
* `{{G169}}` **akáthartos** (unclean person): Meaning impure, this term appears with **whoremonger** to describe those who have no inheritance in the kingdom [[Ephesians 5:5]], broadening the concept from a specific act to a state of moral impurity.
* `{{G952}}` **bébēlos** (profane person): This word, meaning heathenish or wicked, is used in parallel with **fornicator** to describe Esau [[Hebrews 12:16]], illustrating how the sin is viewed as a rejection of what is sacred.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4205}}` is significant, highlighting key principles of sin and salvation.
* **Exclusion from the Kingdom:** The use of **pórnos** repeatedly serves as a clear warning that those who practice such behavior will not inherit the **kingdom** `{{G932}}` of God [[1 Corinthians 6:9]]. A **whoremonger** has no **inheritance** `{{G2817}}` in the kingdom [[Ephesians 5:5]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The term is directly connected to divine judgment. God `{{G2316}}` will judge **whoremongers** and adulterers [[Hebrews 13:4]], and their final destination is described as "the second death" [[Revelation 21:8]].
* **Community Holiness:** The word is used to establish a standard of conduct for believers. Paul instructs the Corinthian church not to company with a brother who is a **fornicator** [[1 Corinthians 5:9]], differentiating the church from the world and emphasizing the need for purity within the community.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4205}}` is not merely a label for an act but describes a character whose lifestyle is in rebellion against God's standards for purity. It is consistently presented as a serious offense that separates an individual from the community of believers, disqualifies them from an inheritance in God's kingdom, and places them under divine judgment. The usage of **pórnos** underscores the biblical call to holiness and the severe consequences of sexual immorality.
TRV