Brief Overview of ἀκαθάρτης (G168)

The Greek word ἀκαθάρτης (akathártēs) means “unclean” or “impure.” It is an adjective used to describe something or someone that is morally or ceremonially defiled. The term is used in the context of both physical impurity and moral or spiritual defilement, indicating a state of being unclean in a broad sense.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• G168 ἀκαθάρτης (akathártēs): Strong’s defines this term as “unclean” or “impure.” It describes a state of being defiled or unclean, which can refer to physical dirtiness as well as moral or spiritual impurity. This term is used to characterize someone or something that is considered unclean, whether due to ceremonial, moral, or spiritual reasons. For example, it is used in passages like 1 Peter 2:9 to refer to those who are purified and thus separated from impurity.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• According to Thayer’s, ἀκαθάρτης means “unclean” or “impure,” with a focus on both moral and ceremonial defilement. Thayer’s explains that the term is used to describe a state of impurity or defilement, covering both physical dirtiness and moral corruption. It emphasizes a broad concept of being unclean in various contexts, including religious and ethical settings. The lexicon highlights its use in describing those who are not yet purified or who are tainted by impurity.

1. Brown-Driver-Briggs (BDB) Lexicon:

• BDB does not specifically cover ἀκαθάρτης, but related lexical studies suggest that the term means “unclean” or “impure.” It conveys the idea of being defiled or morally corrupt, applicable in both physical and moral contexts. The term indicates a state of being unclean, which may be associated with ceremonial laws or moral failures.

1. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon:

• The LSJ Lexicon defines ἀκαθάρτης as “unclean” or “impure.” It describes the term’s use to denote something or someone that is defiled, covering both physical and moral impurity. The lexicon notes that ἀκαθάρτης is applied in various contexts to indicate a state of being unclean, whether due to physical reasons or moral and spiritual defilement.

In summary, ἀκαθάρτης refers to the quality of being “unclean” or “impure,” encompassing both physical and moral aspects of defilement. The term describes a state of impurity that can pertain to ceremonial, moral, or spiritual contexts, indicating a broad notion of being unclean.