### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb **asṓtōs**, represented by `{{G811}}`, means **dissolutely** or **riotous**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. This specific term describes a way of life marked by wasteful and reckless behavior.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G811}}` is in the parable of the prodigal son. After the younger **son** `{{G5207}}` gathered all his **substance** `{{G3776}}`, he took a journey into a **far** `{{G3117}}` **country** `{{G5561}}`. It was **there** `{{G1563}}` that he "wasted his substance with **riotous** living" [[Luke 15:13]]. The word describes the dissolute manner in which he squandered everything he had received.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of `{{G811}}`:
* `{{G1287}}` **diaskorpízō** (to dissipate, i.e. (genitive case) to rout or separate; specially, to winnow; figuratively, to squander): This verb describes the action of wasting one's possessions, which is done in a **riotous** manner [[Luke 15:13]].
* `{{G3776}}` **ousía** (substance, i.e. property (possessions)): This noun refers to the **substance** or goods that the son squandered through his dissolute lifestyle [[Luke 15:13]].
* `{{G589}}` **apodēméō** (to go abroad, i.e. visit a foreign land): This word establishes the setting for the son's actions, as he **took his journey** away from his father's house before wasting his inheritance [[Luke 15:13]].
* `{{G2198}}` **záō** (to live (literally or figuratively)): This verb is directly modified by `{{G811}}`, forming the phrase "riotous **living**" to specify the nature of the son's life in the far country [[Luke 15:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G811}}` is captured in its singular, powerful use:
* **Squandering of Gifts:** The term is directly linked to the act of wasting `{{G1287}}` one's **substance** `{{G3776}}`. This illustrates the nature of a life that recklessly consumes the blessings or inheritance it has been given [[Luke 15:13]].
* **Life in a Far Country:** The **riotous** living takes place after the son **took his journey** `{{G589}}` into a **far country** `{{G5561}}`. This connects dissolute behavior with a state of separation from the father's presence and guidance [[Luke 15:13]].
* **A Portrait of Dissipation:** By modifying the verb for **living** `{{G2198}}`, `{{G811}}` provides a concise description of a lifestyle that is out of control, without restraint, and ultimately self-destructive.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G811}}` **asṓtōs** provides a specific and vivid descriptor for a life lived dissolutely. Though used only once, its placement in the parable of the prodigal son gives it significant weight, defining the essence of the son's transgression as a **riotous** squandering of his inheritance [[Luke 15:13]]. The word encapsulates a lifestyle of wasteful indulgence that occurs in a state of separation, ultimately leading to ruin and illustrating a key aspect of the human condition apart from the father's care.
TRV