from a comparative of (easy, i.e. reckless) and ἔργον; easy-going behavior, i.e. (by extension) a crime:--lewdness.
Transliteration:rhaidioúrgēma
Pronunciation:hrad-ee-oorg'-ay-mah
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term ῥᾳδιούργημα (rhaidioúrgēma, `{{G4467}}`) is a compound word derived from ῥᾴδιος (rhadios), meaning "easy" or "ready," and ἔργον (ergon), meaning "work" or "deed." Its literal sense therefore conveys an "easy-doing" or "easy-working" action. However, the semantic range of rhaidioúrgēma extends significantly beyond this literal meaning, acquiring a negative connotation. It describes behavior that is "reckless," "wanton," or "careless," indicating a lack of proper consideration, moral restraint, or due diligence. By extension, such "easy-going" behavior culminates in a "crime," "mischief," or "wicked deed." The KJV translation "lewdness" for this term, while emphasizing moral depravity, may be somewhat narrower than the full scope of the Greek, which can encompass any serious offense stemming from a wanton disposition. It points to an action that is not merely effortless, but dangerously so, leading to culpable outcomes.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ῥᾳδιούργημα (rhaidioúrgēma, `{{G4467}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the book of Acts.
* **[[Acts 18:14]]**: "But when Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews, 'If it were a matter of some crime or wicked rhaidioúrgēma, O Jews, reason would that I should bear with you.'"
In this passage, Paul is brought before Gallio, the proconsul of Achaia, by the Jews who accuse him. Gallio's response is pivotal. He distinguishes between genuine criminal offenses (ἀδίκημα, adikēma, `{{G92}}` – a wrong, injustice, or crime) and disputes concerning Jewish law or customs. By pairing rhaidioúrgēma with ἀδίκημα, Gallio implies that the accusation against Paul, if it were valid, would have to constitute a serious and culpable act, not merely a theological disagreement. The phrase "wicked rhaidioúrgēma" (πονηρὸν ῥᾳδιούργημα) underscores that the "reckless deed" is not trivial but morally reprehensible and potentially legally punishable. Gallio's use of the term indicates a deed that is not just an error, but a deliberate act of malice or wantonness that would warrant official intervention.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding rhaidioúrgēma is aided by examining its etymological roots and related terms:
* **ῥᾴδιος (rhadios)**: The root word meaning "easy," "ready," or "facile." This highlights the underlying concept of an action performed with little effort or consideration, which in the context of rhaidioúrgēμα becomes negative.
* **ἔργον (ergon)**: Meaning "work," "deed," or "action." This component identifies rhaidioúrgημα as a concrete act.
* **ἀδίκημα (adikēma, `{{G92}}`)**: "Wrong," "injustice," "crime." This term is directly paralleled with rhaidioúrgημα in [[Acts 18:14]], indicating a similar category of serious offense that violates justice or law.
* **πονηρία (ponēria, `{{G4189}}`)**: "Wickedness," "malice," "depravity." This general term for evil often describes the underlying disposition that leads to rhaidioúrgημα.
* **ἀσέλγεια (aselgeia, `{{G766}}`)**: "Licentiousness," "wantonness," "sensuality." While often translated as "lewdness" and sharing the idea of unrestrained behavior, especially in a sexual or immoral sense, rhaidioúrgημα has a broader application, referring to any reckless or wanton act that constitutes a serious offense, not exclusively sexual. The KJV's translation of G4467 as "lewdness" might reflect an interpretive choice leaning towards the common understanding of "wantonness" as sexual.
### Theological Significance
Though a rare term in the New Testament, rhaidioúrgēma offers significant theological insight. It underscores that sin is not always a calculated rebellion, but can also stem from a careless, wanton, or morally indifferent disposition. The "easy-doing" nature of the act highlights a lack of serious moral engagement or self-control. This contrasts sharply with the biblical call for believers to live with diligence, self-control, and careful discernment ([[2 Peter 1:5-7]], [[Titus 2:12]]).
The context in [[Acts 18:14]] further emphasizes the distinction between genuine spiritual matters and actions that constitute moral or legal offenses. Gallio's statement implicitly affirms that while religious beliefs might differ, actions that are "wicked" or "reckless" (rhaidioúrgēma) are subject to judgment, both human and divine. For believers, this term serves as a warning against spiritual apathy or a casual approach to righteousness, which can lead to deeds that are not merely trivial but culpable in God's eyes. It highlights that even actions seemingly done without much thought or effort can carry profound moral weight and consequences, reminding us of the need for constant vigilance and intentionality in our walk with Christ.
### Summary
The Greek term ῥᾳδιούργημα (rhaidioúrgēma, `{{G4467}}`) denotes an "easy-doing" or "reckless behavior" that escalates into a "crime" or "wicked deed." Derived from ῥᾴδιος (easy) and ἔργον (deed), it describes an action born of carelessness, wantonness, or a lack of moral restraint, leading to serious consequences. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Acts 18:14]] places it in parallel with ἀδίκημα (wrong/injustice), signifying a substantial offense rather than a minor infraction. Theologically, rhaidioúrgēma serves as a reminder that even seemingly "easy" or thoughtless actions can carry significant moral and legal weight, contrasting with the careful and righteous conduct expected of those who follow Christ. It warns against spiritual apathy and the dangers of unbridled, unrestrained behavior.
TRV