αἰσχρολογία (aischrologia)
aischrologia
obscenity
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun aischrologia refers to foul or obscene speech, specifically language that is base, shameful, or indecent. Derived from roots meaning "shameful" and "to speak," it describes words that degrade human dignity rather than build it up. In the New Testament, this term appears only once, in Colossians 3:8, where Paul lists it among the behaviors believers are to put aside.
Its placement in this list highlights its moral weight. It is grouped with anger, rage, malice, and slander, suggesting that aischrologia is not merely casual swearing but speech rooted in a corrupted heart. The word points to communication that strips away respect and exposes the speaker’s lack of self-control.
Translators typically render it as "obscenity" or "filthy language." This captures the sense of speech that is morally low and socially disgraceful. By contrasting such talk with the new identity in Christ, the text emphasizes that believers are called to a higher standard of verbal integrity.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Our words carry weight, shaping both our own character and the atmosphere around us. The Greek word aischrologia points to speech that is base, shameful, or obscene—language designed to degrade rather than build up. It is not just casual swearing but a reflection of a heart that has turned away from love and respect for others.
In Colossians 3:8, Paul places this kind of talk alongside anger, malice, and slander, showing how deeply connected our speech is to our inner state. When we choose words that honor God and uplift those around us, we reflect the new life we have in Christ. This is a practical way to live out our faith every day.
It is okay to stumble sometimes, but we can ask for grace to guard our tongues. Let your speech be a source of encouragement, reflecting the dignity given to every person by their Creator.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- foul language1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- αἰσχρολογίαν1×
Key Verses
-
Colossians 3:8
but now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and shameful speaking out of your mouth.
This verse lists aischrologia alongside anger and malice, showing it is a serious issue of the heart that believers are called to leave behind.