### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **asébeia**, represented by `{{G763}}`, defines **impiety** and by implication, **wickedness**. It appears **6 times** in **6 unique verses** in the Bible. This term signifies a state of being ungodly, which stands in direct opposition to reverence for God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G763}}` describes a condition that invites divine judgment and is contrary to a life of faith. The **wrath** `{{G3709}}` of God is revealed against all **ungodliness** and **unrighteousness** `{{G93}}` of men [[Romans 1:18]]. Believers are specifically taught to **deny** `{{G720}}` **ungodliness** and **worldly** `{{G2886}}` **lusts** `{{G1939}}` [[Titus 2:12]]. The term is also linked to corrupting influences, as **profane** `{{G952}}` and **vain babblings** `{{G2757}}` are said to increase unto more **ungodliness** [[2 Timothy 2:16]]. Ultimately, the promised Deliverer will "turn away **ungodliness** from Jacob" [[Romans 11:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of **ungodliness**:
* `{{G765}}` **asebḗs** (irreverent, i.e. (by extension) impious or wicked): The adjective form used to describe people who live in **ungodliness**. It is used to describe those who will face judgment for their ungodly deeds [[Jude 1:15]].
* `{{G764}}` **asebéō** (to be (by implied act) impious or wicked): The verb form, describing the action of committing ungodly deeds. It is used in [[Jude 1:15]] to detail how the ungodly have "ungodly committed" their deeds.
* `{{G93}}` **adikía** (wrongfulness (of character, life or act)): Often paired with **ungodliness**, this term describes the resulting injustice and unrighteousness that stems from impiety [[Romans 1:18]].
* `{{G1939}}` **epithymía** (a longing (especially for what is forbidden)): This word for **lust** or **desire** is often the driving force behind **ungodliness**. Scripture warns of **mockers** `{{G1703}}` who walk after their own **ungodly** `{{G763}}` **lusts** [[Jude 1:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G763}}` is significant, defining the nature of sin as a direct offense against God.
* **Target of Divine Wrath:** **Ungodliness** is presented as a primary reason for God's judgment. The **wrath** `{{G3709}}` of God is explicitly revealed from heaven against it [[Romans 1:18]].
* **Contrast to Godly Living:** The Christian life is framed by the act of **denying** `{{G720}}` **ungodliness** and **worldly** `{{G2886}}` **lusts** `{{G1939}}`, and instead living **soberly** `{{G4996}}`, **righteously** `{{G1346}}`, and **godly** `{{G2153}}` [[Titus 2:12]].
* **Fruit of False Doctrine:** The term is linked to the consequence of straying from truth. **Profane** `{{G952}}` and **vain babblings** `{{G2757}}` are not harmless but lead to an increase in **ungodliness** [[2 Timothy 2:16]].
* **An Object of Redemption:** The work of the Deliverer is characterized by His power to turn away **ungodliness** from His people, highlighting it as a condition from which humanity needs to be saved [[Romans 11:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G763}}` is not merely a label for general misconduct but a precise term for **impiety** and a state of being that is opposed to God. It is characterized by its connection to unrighteousness and forbidden lusts, its capacity to grow from false teaching, and its status as an object of God's wrath. The rejection of **ungodliness** is a central element of a sanctified life, and its ultimate removal is a key aspect of God's plan of redemption.
TRV