The Greek word asebéō, represented by G764, is a verb meaning to be (by implied act) impious or wicked. It appears 2 times in 2 unique verses in the Bible. The word specifically denotes the action of committing ungodly acts or living in an ungodly manner.
In scripture, G764 is used to describe both a lifestyle of wickedness and the specific acts stemming from it. In 2 Peter, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah is presented as an "ensample unto those that after should live ungodly" 2 Peter 2:6, linking the term to a continuous state of being. Jude uses it to describe the specific actions for which judgment will come, referring to "ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed" Jude 1:15.
Several related words build upon the concept of impiety and wickedness:
- G765 asebḗs: This is the adjective form, meaning irreverent, i.e. (by extension) impious or wicked. It describes the character of a person, such as the "ungodly men" who face judgment Jude 1:4.
- G763 asébeia: This noun signifies impiety, i.e. (by implication) wickedness. It refers to the quality or state of ungodliness itself, as seen in the phrase "ungodliness and unrighteousness of men" Romans 1:18.
- G268 hamartōlós: Meaning sinful, i.e. a sinner, this term identifies the individual. It is often used alongside G765, as in Jude's description of "ungodly sinners" Jude 1:15.
The theological weight of G764 is centered on the concept of divine judgment against impiety.
- Basis for Judgment: Committing ungodly acts is presented as a direct cause for God's judgment. Jude declares that God will "execute judgment upon all" for the "ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed" Jude 1:15.
- A Lifestyle of Wickedness: The term is not limited to singular acts but can describe a continuous way of life. The fate of Sodom and Gomorrah serves as a perpetual warning "unto those that after should live ungodly" 2 Peter 2:6.
- The Nature of Impiety: When viewed with its related terms, G764 helps define a comprehensive picture of sin. It involves an irreverent character G765, a state of wickedness G763, and the resultant actions G764 performed by sinners G268.
In summary, G764 asebéō provides the active verb for the concept of ungodliness. Though appearing only twice, its usage is potent, directly linking the act of living wickedly to divine judgment. It functions within a family of terms that describe the ungodly person G765, the state of ungodliness G763, and the deeds they commit G764. The word thus serves as a critical descriptor for the active impiety that stands in opposition to God and is subject to His condemnation.
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