Romans 1:29 (KJV)

What does Romans 1:29 mean?

Romans 1:29 lists a series of wrong attitudes and actions, describing people as being completely filled with all kinds of unrighteousness, including sexual immorality, wickedness, greed, malice, envy, murder, strife, deceit, cruelty, and gossip. The verse paints a picture of lives dominated by harmful behaviors and destructive relationships.

The apostle Paul is writing to the Christians in Rome, explaining the results of humanity turning away from God. In this section, Paul is describing the moral decline that comes when people reject God’s truth. The list is meant to show the depth and variety of human wrongdoing, not just outward actions but also attitudes and hidden sins.

The Greek behind Romans 1:29

• πληρωθέντας (plērōthentas, “being filled with”): This word suggests being completely full or saturated, not just occasionally involved. Paul is describing a state of being dominated by these wrongs.
• πλεονεξία (pleonexia, “covetousness”): This term often means an insatiable desire for more, especially for things that belong to others. It points to greed that goes beyond simple wanting.
• κακοήθεια (kakoētheia, “malignity”): This word carries the sense of deep-seated ill-will or a tendency to think the worst of others, not just doing harm but having a harmful mindset.
• ψιθυριστάς (psithyristas, “whisperers”): This word refers to secret gossipers or those who spread rumors quietly, highlighting the damage done by hidden or private slander.

Why Romans 1:29 matters

• Romans 1:29 shows that sin is not just about obvious, outward acts but also includes attitudes and private behaviors that can be just as destructive.
• The verse emphasizes the completeness of the problem—people are “filled” with these things, not just dabbling in them, which underscores the seriousness of turning away from God.
• This list connects to Paul’s larger argument that all people, not just a few, are in need of God’s mercy, setting up the need for the gospel message he will explain further in the letter.