Biblical Answer

Arsenokoitai is a Greek word that appears in 1 Corinthians 6:9 and 1 Timothy 1:10. It is derived from two words, arsen (man) and koite (bed), found in Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13 (Septuagint). The word arsenokoitai carries the basic meaning of men who have sex with other men. This understanding of the word is supported by early translations of the New Testament, which translate arsenokoitai as men lying together with males, those who lie with men, and lying with males.

The word arsenokoitai is often linked to the Holiness Code of Leviticus, where it is described as a detestable act. In 1 Timothy 1:9-10, Paul speaks of arsenokoitai as one of the sins forbidden by the Decalogue, alongside those who strike their fathers and mothers. The word is also closely tied to the concept of uncleanness and uncleanness is a concept that is frequently used to describe sinful behavior in the New Testament. This understanding of arsenokoitai is supported by the majority of modern English translations, which explicitly link the word to homosexual behavior.

In conclusion, the meaning of arsenokoitai is clear from its derivation and usage in the New Testament. It refers to men who have sex with other men, and is closely tied to the concept of uncleanness and sinful behavior. This understanding of the word is supported by early translations, the Holiness Code of Leviticus, and modern English translations. Therefore, it is clear that arsenokoitai refers to men who engage in homosexual behavior.