### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anomía**, represented by `{{G458}}`, is defined as **illegality, violation of law, or wickedness**. It appears 16 times across 13 unique verses. Derived from ἄνομος, it fundamentally signifies a state of being without law, often translated as iniquity, transgression of the law, or unrighteousness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G458}}` is used to define the very nature of sin. It is stated explicitly that "sin is the **transgression of the law**," directly equating sin with **anomía** [[1 John 3:4]]. This concept carries a weighty consequence, as Jesus declares that to those who work **iniquity**, He will say, "I never knew you: depart from me" [[Matthew 7:23]]. The term is also used in direct contrast to righteousness, questioning what fellowship righteousness has with **unrighteousness** [[2 Corinthians 6:14]]. Christ's redemptive work is described as freeing believers from all **iniquity** [[Titus 2:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of lawlessness and its moral implications:
* `{{G1343}}` **dikaiosýnē** (righteousness): This word serves as the direct opposite of iniquity, representing equity and justification. It is often contrasted with `{{G458}}` to highlight the division between God's standard and sin [[2 Corinthians 6:14]].
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía** (sin): A general term for an offense. The relationship is made explicit when the Bible defines **hamartía** as **anomía** [[1 John 3:4]].
* `{{G93}}` **adikía** (iniquity, unrighteousness): This term denotes legal injustice or moral wrongfulness. It is used alongside `{{G458}}` in promises of God's mercy, where He states He will remember their sins and **iniquities** no more [[Hebrews 8:12]].
* `{{G167}}` **akatharsía** (uncleanness): This refers to moral or physical impurity. Scripture links it with iniquity, describing how people can yield their members as servants to **uncleanness** and to **iniquity** [[Romans 6:19]].
* `{{G4160}}` **poiéō** (to make or do): This common verb for action is used to describe the practice of lawlessness, as seen in the phrase "them which **do iniquity**" [[Matthew 13:41]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G458}}` is significant, clarifying the nature of sin and salvation.
* **The Essence of Sin:** The most direct theological contribution of `{{G458}}` is its role in defining sin not just as a misdeed, but as a state of lawlessness or violation of divine law [[1 John 3:4]].
* **Opposition to God's Nature:** Iniquity is presented as something directly opposed to God's character. Scripture states that Christ "hated **iniquity**" and "loved righteousness" [[Hebrews 1:9]]. This inherent opposition means there can be no fellowship between them [[2 Corinthians 6:14]].
* **A Cause for Divine Judgment:** The practice of **iniquity** is a basis for eschatological judgment. Jesus warns that He will command those who "work **iniquity**" to depart from Him [[Matthew 7:23]], and they will be gathered out of His kingdom [[Matthew 13:41]].
* **The Object of God's Forgiveness:** The concept of **iniquity** highlights the promise of God's mercy. Believers are called "blessed" whose **iniquities** are forgiven [[Romans 4:7]], and God promises in the new covenant that He will remember their **iniquities** no more [[Hebrews 10:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G458}}` is far more than a simple label for a bad act. As **anomía**, it provides a precise theological definition of sin as lawlessness. It represents a state of being that stands in direct opposition to God's righteousness, leading to separation and judgment. The term underscores the gravity of sin while also magnifying the grace of God, who, through Christ, redeems His people from all **iniquity** and chooses to remember their transgressions no more.
TRV