Lexical Summary aischrologia: Filthy language, obscene speech, foul talk Original Word: αἰσχρολογία Strong's Exhaustive Concordance filthy communication, obscene speechFrom aischros and logos; vile conversation -- filthy communication. see GREEK aischros see GREEK logos NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom aischros and legó Definition abusive language NASB Translation abusive speech (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 148: αἰσχρολογίααἰσχρολογία, (ας, ἡ (from αἰσχρολόγος, and this from αἰσχρός and λέγω), foul speaking (Tertullianturpiloquium), low and obscene speech, (R. V. shameful speaking): Colossians 3:8: (Xenophon, Aristotle, Polybius) (Cf. Lightfoot at the passage; Trench, § xxxiv.) Topical Lexicon Definition and Linguistic Background Formed from terms for “shameful” and “word,” the noun designates speech that is morally disgraceful. It is more than coarse humor; it carries the idea of language that dishonors both speaker and hearer by violating God-given standards of purity. Scriptural Context (Colossians 3:8) Paul situates the term within a vice list meant to characterize the “old self” that believers are commanded to “put away.” The surrounding sins—anger, wrath, malice, slander—all flow out of a heart at odds with God. “Filthy language” caps the list as an audible symptom of an inner rebellion that Christ’s death and resurrection are meant to overthrow. Theology of Speech Purity 1. Source of Words: Jesus teaches, “For out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34). Obscene talk therefore signals a heart needing renewal. Connections with Old Testament Wisdom Literature Proverbs repeatedly contrasts righteous and corrupt speech (Proverbs 4:24; 10:32; 15:28). The wisdom tradition sets the foundation Paul draws upon: foul speech is not a trivial social faux pas but a rejection of wisdom that leads to life. Historical Usage in Early Christianity Early church writers echoed Paul. The Didache warns against “foul words,” linking them to idolatry. John Chrysostom urged believers to avoid theater performances laced with obscenity, stating that such speech sullies the soul. Christian baptismal vows often included renouncing “every evil word,” underscoring communal seriousness about verbal purity. Pastoral Applications • Personal Sanctification: Memorizing passages such as Psalm 141:3, “Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth,” trains believers to surrender speech to the Spirit. Implications for Mission and Witness Colossians 4:6 urges speech “always with grace, seasoned with salt.” Purity of language authenticates the gospel, while obscenity undermines it. A people whose words are consistently wholesome offer a compelling contrast that draws attention to Christ. Conclusion Strong’s Greek 148 highlights how the sanctifying work of the Spirit reaches the smallest syllable uttered. By putting away “filthy language,” believers display the new humanity recreated in Christ, bringing honor to God and blessing to neighbor. Forms and Transliterations αισχρολογιαν αισχρολογίαν αἰσχρολογίαν aischrologian aischrologíanLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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