from a compound of Α (as a negative particle) and a presumed (of uncertain derivation, but apparently meaning continent); licentiousness (sometimes including other vices):--filthy, lasciviousness, wantonness.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **asélgeia**, represented by `{{G766}}`, denotes **licentiousness**. It appears **9 times** across **9 unique verses**. Its definition includes **filthy**, **lasciviousness**, and **wantonness**. The word is derived from a compound including a negative particle, suggesting an unrestrained or unbridled nature.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G766}}` is frequently used to describe a pattern of ungodly behavior. It is listed as one of the manifest "works of the flesh" [[Galatians 5:19]] and as an evil that proceeds from the human heart [[Mark 7:22]]. The word characterizes the former life of believers who once walked according to "the will of the Gentiles" [[1 Peter 4:3]]. It is also associated with false teachers who "allure through much wantonness" [[2 Peter 2:18]] and even twist the grace of God into an excuse for **lasciviousness** [[Jude 1:4]]. In one instance, it describes the "filthy conversation" of the wicked that vexed just Lot [[2 Peter 2:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of **asélgeia** by highlighting associated sins:
* `{{G167}}` **akatharsía** (impurity): This term for moral or physical **uncleanness** often appears alongside **lasciviousness**, emphasizing a state of defilement that believers are called to put away [[Ephesians 4:19]].
* `{{G4202}}` **porneía** (fornication): Signifying **harlotry**, this is listed with **lasciviousness** as a manifest "work of the flesh" [[Galatians 5:19]] and a sin requiring repentance [[2 Corinthians 12:21]].
* `{{G1939}}` **epithymía** (lusts): This word for a "longing (especially for what is forbidden)" points to the internal desires that fuel a lifestyle of **lasciviousness** [[1 Peter 4:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G766}}` is significant, representing a flagrant disregard for moral and spiritual boundaries.
* **Opposition to God's Grace:** A key danger highlighted in scripture is the act of "turning the grace of our God into **lasciviousness**," which is linked to denying Jesus Christ [[Jude 1:4]].
* **A Work of the Flesh:** It is explicitly categorized as one of the "works of the flesh" [[Galatians 5:19]], a lifestyle in direct conflict with walking in the Spirit.
* **A Sign of Spiritual Hardness:** Those who have become "past feeling" give themselves over to **lasciviousness** to practice all kinds of uncleanness with greediness [[Ephesians 4:19]].
* **A Matter for Repentance:** The presence of unrepentant **lasciviousness**, along with uncleanness and fornication, is a cause for great sorrow and mourning within the church [[2 Corinthians 12:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G766}}` **asélgeia** describes more than an isolated sinful act; it denotes a lifestyle of open and shameless indulgence, **wantonness**, and moral impurity. It is identified as an evil originating from the heart, a characteristic of the works of the flesh, and a behavior that stands in direct opposition to God's grace. Scripture presents it as a serious transgression that grieves the righteous and requires repentance.
TRV