### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **astḗriktos**, represented by `{{G793}}`, means **unfixed** or, figuratively, **vacillating** and **unstable**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is formed from a negative particle, indicating a state of being not fixed or firmly set.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G793}}` is used exclusively in the book of 2 Peter to describe individuals who are easily led astray. These **unstable** souls are susceptible to being beguiled by false teachers who have hearts exercised with covetous practices [[2 Peter 2:14]]. The term is also applied to those who are **unlearned** `{{G261}}` and who consequently **wrest** `{{G4761}}`, or pervert, difficult passages of scripture, leading to their own **destruction** `{{G684}}` [[2 Peter 3:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the nature and consequences of being unstable:
* `{{G4761}}` **streblóō** (to pervert): This word, translated as **wrest**, describes the action of the unstable, who twist the scriptures from their true meaning [[2 Peter 3:16]]. It implies a violent distortion.
* `{{G1185}}` **deleázō** (delude): This term for **beguiling** or enticing is used to show how unstable souls are entrapped by those who appeal to sinful desires [[2 Peter 2:14]].
* `{{G261}}` **amathḗs** (ignorant): Translated as **unlearned**, this word is directly linked with `{{G793}}`, showing that a lack of sound teaching contributes to a person's instability and vulnerability to error [[2 Peter 3:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G793}}` is significant, serving as a warning against spiritual immaturity and a lack of grounding in the truth.
* **Vulnerability to False Teaching:** The concept of being unstable is directly tied to the danger of being **beguiled** `{{G1185}}` by those who cannot cease from **sin** `{{G266}}` [[2 Peter 2:14]]. It highlights a spiritual state that is open to corruption.
* **Perversion of Scripture:** The unstable are shown to **wrest** `{{G4761}}` the **scriptures** `{{G1124}}` to their own **destruction** `{{G684}}` [[2 Peter 3:16]]. This demonstrates that a lack of firm spiritual footing leads to a dangerous misapplication of divine truth.
* **Consequence of being Unfixed:** Being described as `{{G793}}` is not a neutral state but a condition that puts one's **soul** `{{G5590}}` at risk. It stands in contrast to the stability and steadfastness that believers are called to cultivate.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G793}}` **astḗriktos** is a specific and powerful term used to describe a spiritually **unfixed** and **vacillating** condition. Though it appears only twice, it carries a heavy warning. It characterizes those who are easily entrapped by sinful influences and who dangerously pervert scripture due to their lack of grounding. The word serves as a potent reminder of the biblical call to be steadfast and established in the faith to avoid the path of **destruction** `{{G684}}`.
TRV