μολυσμός (molusmos)
molusmos
defilement
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun molusmos refers to a state of defilement or moral pollution. It describes something that has been stained or corrupted, carrying the weight of impurity that separates a person from what is holy.
This term appears only once in the New Testament, in 2 Corinthians 7:1. Paul uses it to urge believers to cleanse themselves from every defilement of flesh and spirit. The context highlights a call to purity, contrasting the corruption of the world with the holiness required of God’s people.
Its root verb, molunō, means to stain or defile. By focusing on this single instance, we see how Paul applies the concept of ritual or moral uncleanness to the inner life of the believer, emphasizing that true purity involves both physical and spiritual dimensions.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word molusmos points to a deep-seated stain that affects both our outward actions and inner character. In 2 Corinthians 7:1, Paul reminds us that we have precious promises from God, which gives us the strength to pursue purity. This is not about achieving perfection through sheer willpower, but about responding to God’s grace by removing what harms our relationship with Him.
This defilement can come from external influences or internal attitudes. By cleansing ourselves in the fear of God, we acknowledge our need for His help. It is a gentle invitation to align our lives with His holiness, trusting that He provides the way to live freely and clearly before Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- defilement1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μολυσμοῦ1×
Key Verses
-
II Corinthians 7:1
Having therefore these promises, beloved, let’s cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
This verse uniquely connects the call to purity with the assurance of God's promises, showing that motivation for holiness comes from grace rather than fear.