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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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