Thank you for the biblical interpretation of uncleanness in Galatians 5:19, “What does the Bible mean by uncleanness in Galatians 5:19?”
In order to understand the meaning of a word, there are two ways that one defined it. It may be by the dictionary meaning and or by the context usage of the word.
A. Definition of Uncleanness in Galatians 5:19
The word, uncleanness, in the Greek is “akatharsia” may mean either physical uncleanness or moral uncleanness. The “a” is a negative while kathairo, mean to purify. Thus, the idea of not clean or unclean.
There was some sort of defilement on or upon that person.
The uncleanness may be of a physical nature, a moral nature or even a religious ceremonial defilement.
In the Old Testament, when a person had a disease as leprosy that person had to shout aloud, “Unclean”. This was to let others know of his physical condition so that they will not be affected by it. There was a separation or isolation of that person from others.
One may do a word search on uncleanness in the Old or New Testament to determine how that word was used.
B. The Context of Uncleanness in Galatians 5:19.
As one reads the context of uncleanness in Galatians 5:16–21, the lists of words indicate actions from the sinful flesh. Paul says this, “The acts of the flesh are obvious…” It is the outward display that comes from within that person. It is that person inner moral corruption or depravity that is seen by others. He lists 17 acts of the flesh as an example so that Galatian believers could reflect on their own conduct.
Paul does not state what that uncleanness specifically is since by doing so one can condone or rationalize their conduct since he didn’t that uncleanness. Was he thinking of ceremonial uncleanness as to the Law of Moses? Were they becoming contaminated by intermingling and behaving like the Gentiles? It appears so to me.
This uncleanness is listed between sexual immorality and between. Was there some conduct in a drunken state that was inappropriate for believers? Since Paul lists orgies, it implies that some believers were attending those parties. it is unlikely a ceremonial defilement but a physical defilement that had to do with the acts of the flesh..
Summary: Paul does not state what the uncleanness was, but it was understood by the Galatian believers. The uncleanness had to do with something of or with the body of the believer.
-Kingston