### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sḗpō** `{{G4595}}` is a primary verb meaning **to putrefy**. It appears only **1 time** in the Bible, in a single verse, where it is used figuratively to mean perish or **be corrupted**. Its rarity makes its single use particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{G4595}}` is in a direct warning about the fate of worldly wealth. The book of James states, "Your riches are **corrupted**, and your garments are motheaten" [[James 5:2]]. In this context, the word describes the decay and ruin of hoarded material possessions, specifically **riches** `{{G4149}}`. It is paired with the image of fine **garments** `{{G2440}}` being destroyed by moths, underscoring the theme of natural, inevitable decay for earthly treasures.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context help clarify the meaning of `{{G4595}}`:
* `{{G4149}}` **ploûtos** (riches): This word for wealth or possessions is the subject of the corruption. It is often contrasted with spiritual wealth, as the deceitfulness of **riches** can choke the word and make one unfruitful [[Matthew 13:22]].
* `{{G4598}}` **sētóbrōtos** (motheaten): Used in direct parallel with `{{G4595}}`, this term describes the destruction of garments. Its only appearance is alongside `{{G4595}}`, reinforcing the shared theme of decay [[James 5:2]].
* `{{G2440}}` **himátion** (garment): Representing another form of worldly wealth, these are described as being destroyed. The Bible uses **garments** both literally and symbolically, such as the white **raiment** promised to those who overcome [[Revelation 3:5]].
* `{{G5216}}` **hymōn** (your): This pronoun emphasizes that the warning is directed personally to the audience. It is used to call for personal responsibility, such as presenting **your** bodies as a living sacrifice [[Romans 12:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4595}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use:
* **The Transience of Earthly Wealth:** The primary theological point is that material riches are perishable. `{{G4595}}` declares that wealth will rot and decay, serving as a warning against trusting in "uncertain **riches**" instead of the "living God" [[1 Timothy 6:17]].
* **A Sign of Misplaced Hope:** The corruption of riches is presented as a consequence of a misplaced value system. The context of related words points to a higher calling, where God supplies all **your** need according to his **riches** in glory [[Philippians 4:19]], a form of wealth that does not putrefy.
* **Physical Decay as a Spiritual Metaphor:** While describing a physical process, "to putrefy" functions as a metaphor for the ultimate worthlessness and corruption of a life focused on hoarding wealth rather than on God.
### Summary
In summary, **sḗpō** `{{G4595}}` is a vivid and specific term for decay. Though appearing just once, it delivers a critical theological warning about the futility of materialism. By describing riches as "corrupted," it powerfully illustrates the biblical principle that earthly treasures are temporary and subject to ruin, urging a focus on the incorruptible riches of God's kingdom instead. The word's meaning is amplified by its immediate context, which pairs it with other symbols of worldly wealth in a state of decay.
TRV