Biblical Answer

The Meaning of Arsenokoitai

The Greek word arsenokoitai is a term used by Paul in 1 Corinthians 6:9 and 1 Timothy 1:10 to describe men who engage in homosexual behavior. The word is derived from two words: arsen, meaning "man," and koite, meaning "bed." The Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Old Testament, uses the same words in Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13 to describe the sin of men lying with men. This understanding of arsenokoitai is supported by early translations of the New Testament, which translate the word as "men lying together with males" (Latin), "those who lie with men" (Syriac), and "lying with males" (Coptic).

The Derivation of Arsenokoitai

Paul's use of the term arsenokoitai is likely derived from the Holiness Code of Leviticus, which prohibits men from lying with men. The word is not found in any surviving Greek literature prior to Paul's use of it in 1 Corinthians. The Septuagint's translation of Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13, which uses the same words as arsenokoitai, provides evidence that the term refers to men who engage in homosexual behavior. This understanding of arsenokoitai is also supported by the context of 1 Corinthians 6:9 and 1 Timothy 1:10, where Paul lists arsenokoitai as one of the sins that will exclude someone from the kingdom of God.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Greek word arsenokoitai refers to men who engage in homosexual behavior. The word is derived from the words arsen and koite, meaning "man" and "bed," respectively, and is likely taken from the Holiness Code of Leviticus. The Septuagint's translation of Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13, as well as early translations of the New Testament, support this understanding of arsenokoitai. This understanding is also consistent with the context of 1 Corinthians 6:9 and 1 Timothy 1:10, where Paul lists arsenokoitai as one of the sins that will exclude someone from the kingdom of God. Therefore, arsenokoitai can be understood as a term that refers to men who engage in homosexual behavior.