ἀλίσγημα (alisgēma)
alisgēma
defilement
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun alisgēma refers to a state of defilement or pollution. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Acts 15:20, where the Jerusalem council instructs Gentile believers to abstain from it. The sources identify this specific instance as referring to food that has been ritually contaminated, likely through contact with idols or improper handling.
Its meaning derives from the verb alisgeō, which means to soil or pollute. This linguistic root suggests a physical or ceremonial uncleanness rather than a purely moral failing. The term highlights the early church’s concern for maintaining purity standards that would not offend Jewish sensibilities while welcoming Gentiles into the community.
Translators typically render alisgēma as "pollution" or "defilement." This choice captures the sense of something rendered unclean by external contact. The word underscores the practical steps taken to foster unity between Jewish and Gentile Christians during a critical period of expansion.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word alisgēma points to a state of defilement or pollution, often linked to physical contact with unclean things rather than just internal moral failure. In Acts 15:20, the early church leaders used this term to describe food associated with idols. This was not about strict legalism but about protecting the conscience of new believers and maintaining unity within a diverse community.
For your faith today, this reminds us that our actions can impact others who are weaker in their understanding. We are called to be sensitive to how our freedom might stumble those around us. By avoiding things that cause spiritual harm or confusion, we show love and care for our neighbors. This practical step helps build a healthier, more united body of believers.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- pollutions1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀλισγημάτων1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 15:20
but that we write to them that they abstain from the pollution of idols, from sexual immorality, from what is strangled, and from blood.
This verse uses alisgēma to specifically identify food polluted by idolatry as something Gentile believers should avoid to maintain fellowship with Jewish Christians.