Brief Overview of ἀσώτως (G811: Asōtōs)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: Asōtōs

Root Words: ἀσώτως (asōtōs) is derived from the root ἀσώτος (asōtos), which combines the privative prefix α- (without) and σώτος (safe, sound), thus indicating a lack of restraint or moral soundness.

Primary Meanings:

• Dissolutely: Describing behavior characterized by a lack of moral restraint and indulgence in excess.
• Extravagantly: Reflecting actions marked by excessive spending or wastefulness.
• Irresponsibly: Indicating conduct that is careless or lacking in discipline, particularly in moral or financial contexts.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG defines ἀσώτως as “dissolutely” or “extravagantly,” emphasizing behavior that is wasteful and lacks moral restraint. It often denotes conduct that is morally irresponsible.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon describes ἀσώτως as “dissolutely,” highlighting the idea of living in a way that is marked by excess and lack of control, often in moral or financial aspects.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary notes that ἀσώτως means “extravagantly” or “dissolutely,” focusing on behavior that is characterized by excessive indulgence and a disregard for moderation.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon defines ἀσώτως as “dissolutely” or “extravagantly,” reflecting its use to describe conduct that is wasteful and lacking in discipline.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s defines ἀσώτως as “dissolutely,” emphasizing the lack of restraint and excess associated with the term.

Bible Verses:

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• Luke 15:13 (KJV): “And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.”
• Here, “riotous living” translates ἀσώτως, describing the prodigal son’s reckless and extravagant behavior.
• 1 Peter 4:4 (KJV): “Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you:”
• The term “excess of riot” translates ἀσώτως, indicating excessive and unruly conduct.

3. Classic Greek Literature:

Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

• Aristotle: In Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle explores virtues and vices, including discussions on the extremes of behavior similar to the concept of ἀσώτως.
• Plato: Although Plato’s texts may not use ἀσώτως directly, discussions in works like The Republic address the moral implications of excessive behavior.
• Xenophon: In Cyropaedia, Xenophon touches on themes of moderation versus excess, relevant to the understanding of ἀσώτως.

4. Summary:

ἀσώτως (Asōtōs) denotes behavior characterized by excessive indulgence, wastefulness, and a lack of moral restraint. The term reflects actions that are dissolutely or irresponsibly extravagant. In classic Greek literature, while the specific term may not always appear, related themes of moderation and excess are frequently discussed. Biblical usage of ἀσώτως underscores the consequences of living in a way that is marked by reckless and excessive conduct.