Brief Overview of ῥυπαρία (Strong’s G4507: rhyparia)

Strong’s G4507: A feminine noun meaning “filthiness,” “moral uncleanness,” or “impurity,” derived from ῥύπος (filth). In James, it appears in the context of putting away moral defilement and wickedness, emphasizing the need for spiritual cleansing and holiness in the Christian life.

U- Unveiling the Word

Ῥυπαρία represents both physical filth and moral impurity in Greek usage, but in its New Testament context, it specifically addresses moral and spiritual uncleanness. In James’s epistle, it appears alongside “abundance of wickedness,” highlighting the need for spiritual purification. Early church fathers frequently used this term to discuss the process of sanctification and moral cleansing. Today, it continues to illustrate the need for ongoing purification in the Christian life.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: ῥυπαρία, rhyparia, /hroo-par-ee-ah/
• Detailed pronunciation: hroo-par-EE-ah (with emphasis on third syllable)
• Part of Speech: Noun (feminine)

Etymology:

• Root: ῥύπος (filth, dirt)
• Suffix: -ια (forms abstract nouns)
• Related to physical dirt/grime
• Extended to moral impurity

D – Defining Meanings

• Moral filthiness
• Spiritual impurity
• Ethical uncleanness
• Moral defilement

For compound words:
This is not a compound word but a derivative with an abstract noun suffix.

Translation Options:

• “filthiness” – emphasizing impurity
• “moral defilement” – highlighting ethical aspect
• “uncleanness” – general impurity

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ἀκαθαρσία (akatharsia) /ak-ath-ar-see-ah/ – uncleanness, impurity
  See G167
• μολυσμός (molysmos) /mol-oos-mos/ – defilement
  See G3436

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological features as a feminine noun:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Feminine
• Declension: First declension

Example forms:

• Nominative singular: ῥυπαρία
• Genitive singular: ῥυπαρίας
• Dative singular: ῥυπαρίᾳ
• Accusative singular: ῥυπαρίαν

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its moral significance. Thayer’s connects it to both physical and moral uncleanness. LSJ provides examples from physical dirt to moral corruption. Vine’s highlights its ethical implications. Strong’s relates it to defiling influences. Moulton and Milligan document its use in moral contexts.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“Therefore put away all [ῥυπαρία] filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.” James 1:21

Additional References:
None in the New Testament

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Ῥυπαρία powerfully illustrates the need for spiritual cleansing. It proclaims the good news that King Jesus provides purification from moral defilement. This word reminds us that while we must actively put away impurity, God provides the means for cleansing through His Word and Spirit.

D – Did You Know?

1. The word was used in ancient medical texts for physical uncleanliness before its moral application.
2. Early Christian baptismal liturgies often referenced this term regarding spiritual cleansing.
3. The metaphorical use of cleansing language influenced Christian poetry and hymns.

Strong’s G4507: A feminine noun meaning “filthiness,” “moral uncleanness,” or “impurity,” derived from ῥύπος (filth). In James, it appears in the context of putting away moral defilement and wickedness, emphasizing the need for spiritual cleansing and holiness in the Christian life.

Part of speech: Noun (feminine)

Tags: filthiness, impurity, moral defilement, spiritual cleansing, sanctification, holiness, James, purification, wickedness, spiritual growth, moral purity​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​