from Α (as a negative particle) and a presumed derivative of ἔχω (in the sense of its congener σχῆμα); properly, shapeless, i.e. (figuratively) inelegant:--uncomely.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective ἀσχήμων (aschḗmōn, `{{G809}}`) is a compound word, derived from the negative particle ἀ- (alpha privative) and a presumed derivative of ἔχω (echō), specifically related to σχῆμα (schēma, `{{G4976}}`), meaning "form," "shape," or "outward appearance." Therefore, the literal sense of ἀσχήμων is "without form" or "shapeless."
Figuratively, and more commonly in its biblical usage, it denotes that which is "unbecoming," "unseemly," "indecorous," or "inelegant." It describes something that lacks proper order, grace, or suitability in appearance or conduct. It does not necessarily imply ugliness, but rather a lack of the appropriate or fitting form, making it "uncomely" or "improper" in a given context. The word conveys a sense of impropriety or a deviation from what is considered decent or honorable in presentation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἀσχήμων (aschḗmōn, `{{G809}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Apostle Paul's first letter to the Corinthians:
* **[[1 Corinthians 12:23]]**: "And those parts of the body that we think to be less honorable we clothe with greater honor, and our unpresentable (ἀσχήμων) parts are treated with greater modesty."
In this passage, Paul employs the analogy of the human body to illustrate the interdependence and divine design of the Church, which is the body of Christ. He speaks of "less honorable" (ἀτιμότερα) and "unpresentable" (ἀσχήμων) parts of the body. These are not inherently "bad" or "ugly" parts, but rather those that, by nature or societal convention, are considered less public or require covering and special care (e.g., private organs).
The context highlights God's wisdom in creation: precisely these "uncomely" or "unpresentable" parts are given "greater honor" (τιμήν περισσοτέραν) through clothing and "greater modesty" (εὐσχημοσύνην περισσοτέραν). This divine arrangement ensures that all parts are valued and protected, preventing shame and fostering a harmonious whole. Paul applies this principle directly to the diverse members of the Church, emphasizing that those members who might seem less prominent or gifted are, by God's design, given special honor and care, ensuring the unity and health of the entire spiritual body.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of ἀσχήμων (aschḗmōn, `{{G809}}`) is illuminated by its morphological relatives and conceptual counterparts:
* **σχῆμα (schēma, `{{G4976}}`)**: The root from which ἀσχήμων is formed, meaning "form," "figure," "outward appearance," or "fashion." The negative particle ἀ- indicates the absence or negation of this proper form.
* **ἀσχημονέω (aschēmoneō, `{{G807}}`)**: The verb form, meaning "to act unbecomingly," "to behave improperly," or "to be indecent." This verb is used in [[1 Corinthians 13:5]] ("Love does not act unbecomingly").
* **ἀσχημοσύνη (aschēmosynē, `{{G808}}`)**: The noun form, meaning "indecency," "shamefulness," or "improper behavior." This noun appears in [[Romans 1:27]] and [[Revelation 16:15]].
* **εὐσχημοσύνη (euschēmosynē, `{{G2156}}`)**: The antonym of ἀσχημοσύνη, meaning "decency," "propriety," or "comeliness." It appears in the same verse as ἀσχήμων, [[1 Corinthians 12:23]], highlighting the contrast: "our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty (εὐσχημοσύνην)."
* **ἀπρεπής (aprepēs, `{{G678}}`)**: Another adjective meaning "unbecoming," "unseemly," or "improper," often used in a moral or ethical sense (e.g., [[Titus 1:11]]). It shares the sense of being unfitting or inappropriate.
The concept of modesty, honor, and the proper ordering of things, especially within the community of faith, are central to understanding ἀσχήμων.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of ἀσχήμων (aschḗmōn, `{{G809}}`) in [[1 Corinthians 12:23]] carries profound theological significance, particularly for ecclesiology and Christian ethics:
1. **Divine Wisdom in Creation and Redemption**: Paul's analogy reveals God's meticulous and wise design, not only in the physical body but preeminently in the spiritual body of Christ, the Church. God intentionally gives "greater honor" to those parts that might appear "uncomely" or "less honorable" from a human perspective. This demonstrates a divine wisdom that transcends human standards of beauty, utility, or status. It challenges any notion that some members are less valuable or less worthy of honor in God's eyes.
2. **Radical Inclusivity and Dignity**: The passage underscores a radical inclusivity within the Church. It asserts that every member, regardless of perceived strength, gifting, or social standing, is an essential and honored part of the body. Those who might be overlooked, marginalized, or deemed "unpresentable" by the world's standards are precisely the ones to whom God ensures special care and dignity within the Christian community. This principle counters human tendencies towards elitism, prejudice, or the valuing of outward appearance above intrinsic worth.
3. **Mutual Care and Interdependence**: The concept of "clothing with greater honor" and treating with "greater modesty" highlights the Christian imperative for mutual care. Members are called to actively provide for, protect, and honor one another, especially those who might be vulnerable or less visibly gifted. This fosters a community of deep interdependence where the well-being of one part is intimately connected to the well-being of the whole, reflecting Christ's own care for His body.
4. **Reversal of Worldly Values**: The divine principle articulated by Paul stands in stark contrast to worldly values, which often prioritize outward appearance, strength, and public display. God's way is to elevate the "uncomely," to cover with modesty, and to ensure that no part is left exposed to shame. This serves as a powerful reminder that the Kingdom of God operates on principles that often reverse the wisdom of the world.
### Summary
ἀσχήμων (aschḗmōn, `{{G809}}`) is a Greek adjective meaning "uncomely," "unseemly," or "lacking proper form/decorum." Derived from the negation of "form" or "appearance," it describes that which is improper or unpresentable. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[1 Corinthians 12:23]] is profoundly significant. In the context of the body of Christ, Paul uses ἀσχήμων to refer to those parts of the human body that, while essential, are considered "less honorable" or "unpresentable" and thus receive greater care and modesty. Theologically, this illustrates God's divine wisdom in designing the Church: those members who might be perceived as less prominent or "uncomely" are precisely the ones whom God ensures receive special honor, dignity, and care within the community. This truth promotes radical inclusivity, mutual interdependence, and a profound reversal of worldly values, affirming the inherent worth and essential contribution of every member in the unified body of Christ.
TRV