What is…
lasciviousness
also known as: lewdness, debauchery, wantonness, lecherous
Greek: ασελγής —transliteration: aselgeia
The word is derived from the Latin: lascivus or lascvia, meaning “lustful, lewdness, wantonness.”
Biblical meaning: inappropriate and overt expressions of sexual desire; being driven by sexual desire—filled with it and expressing it; intentional provoking or exciting of sexual lust; given to lust; lewdness; filthy immorality; debauchery or living in debauchery; wantonness, licentiousness; lecherous; promiscuous
This word appears 6 times in the King James Bible and, being a Latin word, is used only in the New Testament.
“…when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries…” —1 Peter 4:3
“…have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness…” —2 Corinthians 12:21
“Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness…” —Ephesians 4:19
“…the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness…” —Galatians 5:19
“…ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness…” —Jude 1:4
More information
- LUST—What does the Bible say about sexual lust? Answer
- lust
- fornication
- adultery
- drunkenness
- What is sin?
- idolatry
- fall of man
- temptation
- Learn how to make your love the best it can be. Christian answers to questions about sex, marriage, sexual addictions, and more. Valuable resources for Christian couples, singles and pastors. For help and guidance, see our Sex, Love and Relationships Web site—find answers to your questions—GO