### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aphtharsía**, represented by `{{G861}}`, refers to **incorruptibility**, **unending existence**, and figuratively, **genuineness** or **sincerity**. It is derived from ἄφθαρτος. It appears **8 times** in **8 unique verses**, primarily addressing the concepts of immortality and incorruption.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural usage, `{{G861}}` is central to the concept of resurrection and eternal life. It is frequently contrasted with the decay of the current physical state. For instance, the Bible states that a body is "sown in corruption... raised in incorruption" [[1 Corinthians 15:42]] and that "flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption" [[1 Corinthians 15:50]]. This state of **incorruption** is brought to light through the **gospel** `{{G2098}}` by Jesus Christ, who has abolished death [[2 Timothy 1:10]]. It is also presented as a quality to be sought through patient continuance in good works [[Romans 2:7]] and as a mark of genuine love for the Lord Jesus Christ [[Ephesians 6:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning of **aphtharsía**:
* `{{G5356}}` **phthorá** (corruption): This is the direct opposite of `{{G861}}`. The Bible establishes a clear distinction, stating that what is sown in **corruption** will be raised in **incorruption** [[1 Corinthians 15:42]], and that **corruption** cannot inherit what is incorruptible [[1 Corinthians 15:50]].
* `{{G110}}` **athanasía** (deathlessness): This term for **immortality** is used alongside `{{G861}}` to describe the final state of believers. The mortal body must `put on` `{{G1746}}` **immortality**, just as the corruptible body must `put on` `{{G1746}}` **incorruption** [[1 Corinthians 15:53-54]].
* `{{G5349}}` **phthartós** (corruptible): This adjective describes the current, perishable nature of the human body and worldly things. Scripture explains that this **corruptible** form must `put on` `{{G1746}}` **incorruption** `{{G861}}` [[1 Corinthians 15:53]].
* `{{G90}}` **adiaphthoría** (uncorruptness): This related term is used to describe purity of **doctrine** `{{G1319}}`. In [[Titus 2:7]], it is used alongside **sincerity** `{{G861}}` and **gravity** `{{G4587}}` as essential qualities for teaching.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G861}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of salvation and Christian life.
* **The Resurrection Body:** The primary theological contribution of `{{G861}}` is its description of the glorified state of believers. It defines the nature of the resurrection body as one of **incorruption**, free from the decay and death that characterize the present mortal state ([[1 Corinthians 15:42]], [[1 Corinthians 15:53]]).
* **Victory in Christ:** This **incorruption** is not a natural human quality but a reality made possible by the work of Jesus Christ. His appearing has "abolished death and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel" [[2 Timothy 1:10]], making `{{G861}}` a consequence of His victory.
* **Ethical Sincerity:** Figuratively, `{{G861}}` describes the genuineness and purity that should characterize a believer's life. This includes having **sincerity** in one's love for the Lord [[Ephesians 6:24]] and showing **uncorruptness** in doctrine [[Titus 2:7]], linking the future hope to present conduct.
### Summary
In summary, **aphtharsía** `{{G861}}` is a powerful term that encompasses both future hope and present reality. It primarily points to the **incorruption** and unending existence of the resurrection body, a state that stands in stark contrast to earthly decay. This quality is achieved not by human effort but is brought to light by Jesus Christ [[2 Timothy 1:10]]. Furthermore, the word's figurative use calls for **sincerity** in a believer's love and doctrine, connecting the eschatological promise to the practical outworking of faith.
TRV