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    Published: 2024-10-081
    Vol. 66 No. 2 (2024)

    Porneia in Acts15:20.29; 21:25. The meaning and origin of the theme of fornication in the apostolic decree

    Jakub Slawik

    https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7867-7714
    https://doi.org/10.36124/rt.2024.10

    Abstract

    This article answers questions about the content and sources of the so-called apostolic decree in Acts 15, and in particular about the meaning of the term porneia. Starting with a brief presentation of the meaning of its Hebrew equivalent, the root znh, it continues with a discussion on the use of the root word porn- in the Septuagint, the deuterocanonical and apocryphal writings and those by Philo of Alexandria. Since its association with meat sacrificed to gods (idols) only appears in connection with the apostolic decree, 1 Cor. and the later Rev. 2,  Paul’s statements in 1 Cor. 5-10 regarding fornication and eating meat sacrificed to idols are examined. The following conclusions can be drawn from the study: 1) Paul understands the word porneia broadly, probably following TestXII above all; 2) the content of the decree is only substantiated by 1 Cor. 5-10 – Paul’s criticism of fornication and the eating of meat sacrificed to idols is combined with an ban on eating blood and meat of unknown origin, which was important for Judeo-Christians.

    Keywords:

    prostitution, fornication, porneia, meat sacrificed to gods/idols, the Septuagint, biblical apocrypha, 1 Corinthians, Acts, apostolic decree

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    Slawik, J. (2024). Porneia in Acts15:20.29; 21:25. The meaning and origin of the theme of fornication in the apostolic decree. Theological Yearbook, 66(2), *7-*67. https://doi.org/10.36124/rt.2024.10

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