### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **skoliós**, represented by `{{G4646}}`, describes something that is **warped**, **winding**, or figuratively, **perverse**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible and is translated as **crooked**, **froward**, or **untoward**. The term conveys both a literal sense of being physically bent and a metaphorical sense of being morally corrupt or deviant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{G4646}}` ranges from the literal to the profoundly figurative. In a literal context, it describes a path that needs correction, as prophesied in Luke's gospel: "the **crooked** shall be made straight" [[Luke 3:5]]. Figuratively, it characterizes a morally corrupt society. Believers are called to be "blameless and harmless" while living in the midst of a "**crooked** and perverse nation" [[Philippians 2:15]]. This idea is echoed in Acts, which calls for people to "Save yourselves from this **untoward** generation" [[Acts 2:40]]. It is also used to describe a person's character, contrasting difficult masters who are "**froward**" with those who are good and gentle [[1 Peter 2:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G4646}}` by providing either direct partnership or sharp contrast:
* `{{G1294}}` **diastréphō** (to distort... misinterpret, or (morally) corrupt): This word is used alongside **skoliós** to describe a "crooked and **perverse** nation" [[Philippians 2:15]], reinforcing the idea of moral distortion and corruption.
* `{{G2117}}` **euthýs** (straight... level, or (figuratively) true): This serves as a direct antonym to **skoliós**. In the prophecy about preparing the Lord's way, that which is crooked is promised to be made **straight** [[Luke 3:5]].
* `{{G18}}` **agathós** ("good"): This word is set in opposition to **skoliós** in [[1 Peter 2:18]], where servants are instructed to be subject not only to the **good** and gentle masters but also to the froward ones.
* `{{G1933}}` **epieikḗs** (appropriate... mild): Paired with "good," this word further highlights the negative character of the "froward" master. It describes a **gentle** nature that stands in stark contrast to the warped character implied by **skoliós** [[1 Peter 2:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4646}}` is centered on the contrast between divine order and worldly corruption.
* **Moral Perversity of the World:** The term is used to define the nature of a "generation" or "nation" that stands in opposition to God's ways. It characterizes a world that is morally twisted and from which believers must save themselves ([[Acts 2:40]], [[Philippians 2:15]]).
* **The Call to be Distinct:** In response to living in a **crooked** world, believers are called to be "blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke," shining like lights [[Philippians 2:15]]. Their character is meant to be the antithesis of the surrounding culture.
* **Divine Restoration:** The imagery of the **crooked** being made straight points to a redemptive theme. It signifies God's power to restore and correct what has been warped by sin, preparing a straight path for the Lord [[Luke 3:5]].
* **Character in Relationships:** On a personal level, being "froward" is presented as a negative human trait. Believers are instructed on how to endure and respond properly even to those with such a perverse character [[1 Peter 2:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4646}}` is a potent descriptor for anything, literal or moral, that is twisted and deviant from a straight standard. It is used to describe a winding path, a corrupt generation, and a perverse individual. The word serves to highlight the stark contrast between the fallen state of the world and the straight, blameless path that defines the people of God, illustrating the need for both divine restoration and personal integrity.
TRV