### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **phthorá**, represented by `{{G5356}}`, defines **decay** or **ruin**. It appears **9 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is versatile, referring to ruin that is either spontaneous or inflicted, and can be understood in both a literal, physical sense and a figurative, moral one. The core idea encompasses concepts of corruption, destruction, and perishing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5356}}` is frequently used to draw a sharp contrast between the perishable nature of the present world and the eternal nature of what God promises. Paul uses it to describe the consequences of living according to fallen human nature, stating that one who sows to the flesh will from the flesh reap **corruption** [[Galatians 6:8]]. He also applies it to the mortal human body, which is "sown in **corruption**" but will be "raised in incorruption" at the resurrection [[1 Corinthians 15:42]]. Peter uses the term to describe the moral decay in the world, which believers are to escape [[2 Peter 1:4]], and he warns against false teachers who are themselves "servants of **corruption**" [[2 Peter 2:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of **corruption**:
* `{{G861}}` **aphtharsía** (incorruption, immortality): As the direct antonym, this term highlights the state that is free from decay. It is used in direct contrast to `{{G5356}}`, as in the teaching that **corruption** cannot inherit **incorruption** [[1 Corinthians 15:50]].
* `{{G1397}}` **douleía** (bondage): This word signifies slavery and is explicitly linked to `{{G5356}}` in the phrase "the **bondage** of **corruption**" [[Romans 8:21]], framing decay not just as a process but as a state of enslavement.
* `{{G1939}}` **epithymía** (lust, desire): This term identifies the source of moral decay. Believers are said to escape the **corruption** that is in the world "through **lust**" [[2 Peter 1:4]].
* `{{G4561}}` **sárx** (flesh): This refers to human nature with its frailties and passions. The act of sowing to the **flesh** is what results in reaping **corruption** [[Galatians 6:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5356}}` is significant, defining the fallen state from which humanity and creation need deliverance.
* **Moral and Spiritual Decay:** The term goes beyond physical decomposition to describe a profound moral ruin. This state is sourced in **lust** [[2 Peter 1:4]] and is the inevitable result of a life oriented around the **flesh** [[Galatians 6:8]].
* **A State of Bondage:** **Corruption** is presented as an enslaving power. Creation itself is subject to "the **bondage** of **corruption**" [[Romans 8:21]], and those who are overcome by it are "brought in **bondage**" [[2 Peter 2:19]].
* **The Antithesis of Resurrection Life:** The concept of **corruption** is what makes the promise of resurrection so powerful. The natural body is characterized by **corruption**, but the resurrected body is one of **incorruption** [[1 Corinthians 15:42]]. This future deliverance is the hope for creation and for believers.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5356}}` is a critical term for understanding the biblical view of the fallen world. It describes not only the physical process of decay but also the pervasive moral and spiritual ruin that results from sin and lust. As a state of bondage, **corruption** stands in direct opposition to the freedom and eternal life offered by God. It powerfully illustrates the perishable nature of all things apart from divine intervention and the ultimate hope of resurrection into **incorruption**.
TRV