σήπω
sḗpō
G4595 verb
SILEX Entry
Definition
To rot, decay, or undergo putrefaction; in a figurative sense, to become ruined, morally corrupted, or perish. The core meaning is the physical process of decomposition, but in Hellenistic and Koine usage, it can also describe moral or societal decay, or loss of integrity.
Semantic Range
to rot, decay physically, undergo putrefaction, be destroyed through decay, become morally corrupted, perish, waste away
Root / Etymology
From the root σήπ- (sēp-), relating to rotting or decay. The verb is attested in earlier Greek, related to the noun σῆψις (sēpsis, 'rotting,' 'putrefaction'). Unrelated to Hebrew or Aramaic roots.
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical Greek, σήπω primarily refers to natural physical decay, especially of organic material (plants, bodies). The process indicates dissolution and loss of form. In Hellenistic and Koine periods, especially in metaphorical contexts, it comes to denote the corruption or ruination of non-physical things—character, social order, or spiritual condition. In the New Testament (e.g., 2 Peter 2:12), it applies figuratively to the final destruction or moral decay of people, conveying the idea of inevitable ruin. English translations sometimes narrow it to 'perish' or 'be destroyed,' but these do not always capture the processual nuance implied by gradual decay or corruption. Unlike related terms such as διαφθείρω (to destroy, corrupt), which emphasizes active destruction, σήπω centers on natural rot or decay, with stronger connotations of physical putrefaction or gradual decline.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
apparently a primary verb; to putrefy, i.e. (figuratively) perish:--be corrupted.
Root Family
σήπω (sēpō) — to rot, to decay, to putrefy
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4595-01 |
σέσηπεν | sesepen | V PRF ACT IND 3P SG |
has rotted | has rotted | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 total occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4595-01 |
James 5:2 | σέσηπεν | sesepen | V PRF ACT IND 3P SG |
has rotted | has rotted |