### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **rhaidioúrgēma**, represented by `{{G4467}}`, translates to **lewdness**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term is derived from words meaning "easy" or "reckless" and "work," and its base definition signifies easy-going behavior that extends to criminality. It describes a flagrant or reckless crime.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G4467}}` occurs in a legal context in [[Acts 18:14]]. When the Jews brought Paul before the proconsul Gallio for judgment, Gallio stated that if the issue were "a matter of wrong or wicked **lewdness**," he would have reason to hear their case. By using this term, Gallio categorizes a specific type of serious, public crime that would fall under his jurisdiction, distinguishing it from the religious dispute the Jews presented.
### Related Words & Concepts
In its only appearance, `{{G4467}}` is used alongside other words that clarify its meaning:
* `{{G92}}` **adíkēma** (a wrong done:--evil doing, iniquity, matter of wrong.): This term denotes a specific act of injustice or iniquity. It is used to describe the sins of Babylon that have reached to heaven [[Revelation 18:5]] and the "evil doing" Paul was accused of [[Acts 24:20]].
* `{{G4190}}` **ponērós** (hurtful, i.e. evil... morally... culpable, i.e. derelict, vicious, facinorous...): This word describes something that is morally wicked, corrupt, or evil in its effect. It is used in prayers for deliverance from evil [[Matthew 6:13]] and to describe an "evil conscience" [[Hebrews 10:22]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4467}}` is found in its specific, contextual application.
* **Defining Criminality:** In its sole scriptural use, the term helps establish a legal and moral boundary. Gallio uses it to differentiate a prosecutable crime from a matter of religious interpretation, providing insight into how severe public offenses were viewed [[Acts 18:14]].
* **The Nature of Wickedness:** Paired with "matter of wrong" `{{G92}}` and "wicked" `{{G4190}}`, it forms a triad describing a profoundly corrupt act. This act is not only unjust but also springs from a vicious or reckless character, a concept echoed in the teaching that evil proceeds from the heart [[Luke 6:45]].
* **Recklessness and Sin:** The word's origin in "easy-going behavior" suggests a warning against recklessness. It implies that a careless or unprincipled lifestyle can culminate in serious, criminal transgression.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4467}}` is a highly specific term for a particularly reckless and wicked crime. Though appearing only once, its context in [[Acts 18:14]], supported by the accompanying terms `{{G92}}` and `{{G4190}}`, paints a vivid picture of a public, egregious offense. It highlights a category of sin that is not only morally bankrupt but also legally actionable in a civil society.
TRV