### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **asebḗs**, represented by `{{G765}}`, is defined as irreverent, impious, or wicked. It is derived from a negative particle (Α) and a presumed derivative of σέβομαι, indicating a lack of reverence or worship. It appears **9 times** across **8 unique verses**, consistently identifying those who are in opposition to God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G765}}` describes a state of active opposition to divine standards. It is often set in direct contrast to righteousness. For example, [[1 Peter 4:18]] questions what the fate of the **ungodly** and the **sinner** `{{G268}}` will be, given that the **righteous** `{{G1342}}` are "scarcely saved." Despite this negative state, the term is central to the concept of grace, as God "justifieth the **ungodly**" through faith [[Romans 4:5]], and Christ's death was specifically "for the **ungodly**" [[Romans 5:6]]. The term is also linked to divine judgment, as seen with the flood brought upon "the world of the **ungodly**" [[2 Peter 2:5]] and the future "perdition of **ungodly** men" [[2 Peter 3:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of what it means to be ungodly:
* `{{G763}}` **asébeia** (impiety, i.e. (by implication) wickedness): This is the noun form, describing the state or deeds of the ungodly. [[Jude 1:15]] speaks of judgment upon the ungodly for all their "**ungodly** deeds."
* `{{G764}}` **asebéō** (to be (by implied act) impious or wicked): This verb denotes the action of living an ungodly life. [[Jude 1:15]] uses it to describe how the ungodly have "**ungodly committed**" their deeds.
* `{{G1342}}` **díkaios** (equitable... just, meet, right(-eous)): As the opposite of **asebḗs**, this term for "righteous" establishes a clear moral and spiritual distinction. The law is not for a **righteous man**, but for the **ungodly** [[1 Timothy 1:9]].
* `{{G268}}` **hamartōlós** (sinful, i.e. a sinner): This term is frequently associated with **asebḗs**, appearing alongside it in lists of those for whom the law is intended [[1 Timothy 1:9]] and those who face judgment [[1 Peter 4:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G765}}` is significant, highlighting key doctrines:
* **The Object of Grace:** The term defines the very people God seeks to save. It is not the righteous, but the **ungodly** for whom Christ died [[Romans 5:6]] and whom God justifies by faith [[Romans 4:5]]. This underscores the unmerited nature of salvation.
* **The Subject of Judgment:** Scripture consistently portrays the **ungodly** as the subject of God's judgment. This is shown historically with the flood [[2 Peter 2:5]] and prophetically with the coming day of judgment and perdition [[2 Peter 3:7]]. [[Jude 1:4]] warns that **ungodly men** face condemnation.
* **The Purpose of the Law:** The word helps clarify the function of divine law. In [[1 Timothy 1:9]], the law is explicitly stated as being made not for the righteous, but for the **lawless** `{{G459}}`, **sinners** `{{G268}}`, and the **ungodly**, showing its role in convicting and restraining evil.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G765}}` is a precise term that signifies more than mere sin; it denotes a character that is irreverent and actively wicked. It serves a dual purpose in scripture: to identify the recipients of God's justifying grace [[Romans 4:5]] and to mark those who are subject to His righteous judgment [[Jude 1:15]]. The word **asebḗs** powerfully illustrates the stark contrast between human impiety and divine righteousness, and it is fundamental to understanding the scope of both God's law and His redemptive work in Christ.
TRV