Pronunciation Guide: ah-dee-ah-fthor-EE-ah

Basic Definition

Strong’s G90: ἀδιαφθορία describes an unwavering state of moral purity and incorruptibility, particularly in teaching and character. It denotes freedom from corruption or decay in doctrine and ethical conduct, emphasizing the quality of being impossible to corrupt or compromise.

Etymology and Morphology

• Part of Speech: Feminine noun
• Root Words: Compound of ἀ- (negative prefix) + διαφθορά (corruption, decay)
• Language Origin: Koine Greek
• Primary Usage: Teaching contexts, ethical instruction

Word Morphology:

• ἀδιαφθορία (nominative singular) – incorruptibility
• ἀδιαφθορίας (genitive singular) – of incorruptibility
• ἀδιαφθορίᾳ (dative singular) – in/with incorruptibility

Word Origin & History

The term ἀδιαφθορία emerges from classical Greek philosophical discourse where it was used to describe moral and intellectual integrity that could not be compromised. In Hellenistic literature, particularly in the works of Plutarch, it described the quality of being impervious to corruption in matters of governance and ethics.

The compound structure of the word reveals its emphatic meaning – the alpha privative (ἀ-) negates διαφθορά (corruption), creating a term that positively affirms absolute purity and incorruptibility. This linguistic construction emphasizes not just the absence of corruption but the impossibility of corruption taking root.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• Incorruptibility in teaching and doctrine
• Moral purity that cannot be compromised
• Soundness in instruction that remains undefiled

Translation Options:

1. “Incorruptibility” – Best captures the impossibility of moral decay
2. “Uncorruptness” – Emphasizes the ongoing state of moral purity
3. “Pure integrity” – Reflects the practical application in teaching contexts

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἀδιαφθορία appears specifically in the context of teaching and ministerial conduct. Its singular appearance in Titus 2:7 is particularly significant as it relates to the character required for sound teaching and leadership in the church.

The word carries special weight in its biblical context because it connects to the broader New Testament theme of maintaining pure doctrine and holy living in the face of false teaching and moral compromise.

• Titus 2:7 – “in all things show yourself to be an example of good deeds, with purity in doctrine [ἀδιαφθορία] incorruptibility“

Cultural Insights

In the Greco-Roman world, ἀδιαφθορία was particularly valued in the context of philosophical schools where teachers were expected to maintain absolute integrity in their doctrine and conduct. This cultural background illuminates Paul’s use of the term in his pastoral epistle to Titus, where he applies this highly regarded philosophical virtue to Christian teaching.

The concept was especially pertinent in Crete, where Titus ministered, as the culture was known for moral laxity – making the call to incorruptibility particularly countercultural and significant.

Theological Significance

The use of ἀδιαφθορία reflects the character of God Himself, who is absolutely pure and incorruptible. This divine attribute is meant to be reflected in the teaching and character of those who represent Him. It points to the transformative power of the Gospel which enables believers to maintain pure doctrine and conduct through the work of the Holy Spirit.

This word also connects to the broader biblical theme of preservation – God preserving His truth and His people from corruption, reflecting His faithfulness and power to keep those who are His.

Personal Application

In an age where compromise and moral relativism are prevalent, ἀδιαφθορία challenges believers to maintain absolute purity in both teaching and conduct. This calls for regular self-examination and dependence on the Holy Spirit to maintain incorruptible integrity in all areas of life.

Related Words

• ἄφθαρτος (aphthartos) [AF-thar-tos] – imperishable, relating to physical incorruption. See G862
• διαφθείρω (diaphtheiro) [dee-af-THEI-ro] – to corrupt thoroughly. See G1311
• φθορά (phthora) [ftho-RAH] – corruption, decay. See G5356

Did You Know?

• The concept of ἀδιαφθορία was so highly valued in ancient Greek philosophical schools that teachers who compromised their doctrine for financial gain were publicly disgraced.
• In modern Greek, derivatives of this word are still used in legal contexts to describe incorruptible judicial processes.
• The term’s usage in Titus represents the only time in ancient Greek literature where this word is specifically applied to religious teaching.

Remember This

ἀδιαφθορία represents the divine standard of absolute purity in teaching and character that, through the power of the Holy Spirit, transforms both the messenger and the message.