Definition:
In the Bible, lust refers to a strong and sinful desire, especially for sexual pleasure, that goes against God’s design for purity and self-control. While desire itself is not always wrong, lust becomes sinful when it involves craving what God has forbidden or objectifying others for personal gratification.
Have you ever heard someone say, “Lust is a sin,” and wondered what that really means? Is lust just attraction? Is it the same as love? Or is it something deeper and more serious in biblical teaching?
Understanding what lust means in the Bible requires more than a quick dictionary definition. It involves looking at Scripture, historical context, original language, and how the term is used throughout both the Old and New Testaments.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break it down in a clear, friendly, and practical way so you can understand what the Bible really says and why it matters today.
What Does Lust Mean in the Bible?
In biblical terms, lust describes an intense desire that is often sinful because it seeks selfish satisfaction outside of God’s will.
It most commonly refers to:
- Sexual desire outside of marriage
- Craving what belongs to someone else
- Strong selfish appetites
- Desire that replaces obedience to God
The Bible does not condemn all desire. However, it warns against desires that are uncontrolled, impure, or directed toward something forbidden.
A key verse comes from the words of Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Matthew:
Anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
This teaching shows that lust is not just about physical action it begins in the heart and mind.
The Origin of the Word “Lust” in the Bible
To fully understand what lust means in the Bible, we need to explore its original language roots.
Old Testament (Hebrew)
In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word often translated as lust is chamad, which means:
- To desire
- To covet
- To take pleasure in
For example, in the book of Exodus, the Ten Commandments include:
- Do not covet your neighbor’s wife.
- Do not covet your neighbor’s possessions.
Here, lust overlaps with coveting wanting something that belongs to someone else.
New Testament (Greek)
In the New Testament, the Greek word epithymia is used. It means:
- Strong desire
- Craving
- Passion
Interestingly, epithymia can refer to both good and bad desires. Context determines whether it is sinful.
For example:
- Positive desire: Jesus desiring to eat Passover with His disciples.
- Negative desire: Sexual craving or selfish ambition.
This shows that not all desire is evil only desire that goes against God’s will.
Is All Desire Lust?
No. The Bible does not teach that all desire is sinful.
Here’s a helpful comparison:
| Type of Desire | Biblical View | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Healthy Desire | Good | Desire for marriage, success, spiritual growth |
| Natural Attraction | Neutral | Noticing someone is attractive |
| Lust | Sinful | Fantasizing sexually about someone not your spouse |
| Coveting | Sinful | Wanting someone else’s spouse or belongings |
Key Insight: Attraction is natural. Lust is intentional indulgence.
The Bible distinguishes between:
- Noticing beauty 👀 (natural)
- Dwelling on sexual fantasy 💭 (lustful)
Lust in the Teachings of Jesus
One of the clearest teachings on lust comes from the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew chapter 5.
Jesus says that looking at someone with lustful intent equals adultery in the heart.
This teaching was revolutionary at the time. Many religious leaders focused only on outward behavior. Jesus addressed inward thoughts and motives.
Why does this matter?
Because the Bible consistently teaches that:
- Sin begins in the heart.
- Thoughts shape actions.
- Character matters more than appearances.
Lust, according to Jesus, is not just about physical immorality it’s about the internal corruption of desire.
Lust vs Love: What’s the Difference?
People often confuse lust with love, but biblically they are very different.
Here’s a clear comparison:
| Lust | Love |
|---|---|
| Self-focused | Other-focused |
| Seeks pleasure | Seeks commitment |
| Temporary | Long-lasting |
| Driven by impulse | Driven by choice |
| Objectifies | Honors and respects |
The apostle Paul the Apostle writes in 1 Corinthians that love is patient, kind, and self-controlled.
Lust says: What can I get?
Love says: What can I give?
That’s a powerful difference.
Real-World Usage of Lust Today
Outside the Bible, the word lust is commonly used in three ways:
- Sexual craving
- Intense desire (e.g., lust for power)
- Marketing language (e.g., lust-worthy products)
Modern culture often normalizes or even celebrates lust. Movies, advertising, and social media frequently portray lust as romantic or exciting.
But biblically, unchecked lust leads to:
- Broken relationships
- Guilt and shame
- Spiritual separation from God
Tone matters too. In conversation:
- Friendly: He struggled with lust but is working on self-control.
- Neutral: The Bible warns against lust.
- Negative/Dismissive: It’s just lust, not love.
Understanding tone helps clarify meaning.
Lust and the Seven Deadly Sins
In traditional Christian teaching, lust is one of the Seven Deadly Sins.
The concept was popularized by early theologians and later organized by leaders such as Pope Gregory I.
The seven deadly sins include:
- Pride
- Envy
- Wrath
- Sloth
- Greed
- Gluttony
- Lust
These sins are considered deadly because they lead to other sins and spiritual harm.
Does the Bible Only Talk About Sexual Lust?
No. While sexual lust is the most common meaning, the Bible also speaks about:
- Lust for money
- Lust for power
- Lust for possessions
- Lust for status
For example, the apostle James the Just writes that desire gives birth to sin when it is fully grown.
This shows that lust is not just physical—it can be internal ambition or greed.
Biblical Examples of Lust
Here are some examples from Scripture:
King David and Bathsheba
In the book of 2 Samuel, King David sees Bathsheba bathing. His lust leads to adultery and eventually murder.
Lesson: Lust can escalate into serious consequences.
Samson
In the book of Judges, Samson’s uncontrolled attraction leads to betrayal and downfall.
Lesson: Lack of self-control weakens even strong people.
Practical Ways the Bible Encourages Overcoming Lust
The Bible doesn’t just warn it offers guidance.
Here are biblical principles for overcoming lust:
- Guard your eyes and thoughts.
- Practice self-control.
- Focus on purity.
- Pray for strength.
- Avoid tempting environments.
In Philippians, believers are encouraged to think about things that are pure and honorable.
This shifts focus from suppression to transformation.
Alternate Meanings of Lust
In older English, lust simply meant strong desire, even positive desire.
For example:
- Lust for life
- Lust for adventure
In modern biblical discussions, however, lust almost always implies sinful desire.
Polite or Professional Alternatives to “Lust”
In formal or professional settings, instead of saying lust, people may say:
- Inappropriate desire
- Immoral craving
- Excessive passion
- Uncontrolled impulse
These phrases sound more neutral and professional while maintaining meaning.
FAQs
1. What does lust mean in the Bible in simple terms?
It means having a strong, selfish desire usually sexual that goes against God’s will.
2. Is it a sin to feel attraction?
No. Attraction is natural. Lust happens when you dwell on or act on impure thoughts.
3. What Bible verse talks about lust?
One of the clearest is in the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus says looking with lust equals adultery in the heart.
4. Is lust one of the Seven Deadly Sins?
Yes, in traditional Christian teaching it is.
5. Can women struggle with lust too?
Yes. The Bible addresses lust as a human issue, not just a male issue.
6. What is the difference between lust and love?
Lust is selfish and temporary; love is committed and selfless.
7. Does the Bible say lust is unforgivable?
No. Christianity teaches forgiveness through repentance.
8. How can someone overcome lust biblically?
Through prayer, accountability, self-control, renewing the mind, and focusing on godly values.
Conclusion:
So, what does lust mean in the Bible?
At its core, lust is a strong desire that becomes sinful when it is selfish, impure, or outside of God’s design.
Here’s what we’ve learned:
- Not all desire is sinful.
- Lust begins in the heart.
- It differs greatly from love.
- The Bible warns against it but also offers hope and guidance.
- Self-control and purity are recurring biblical themes.
Understanding lust biblically helps you navigate modern culture with wisdom. In a world that often glorifies instant gratification, the Bible calls for intentional character, discipline, and respect for others.
That message remains powerful and relevant today.
Justin Young is a passionate Digital Creator and Content Writer who specializes in crafting engaging, informative, and results-driven content. He focuses on creating high-quality, blog posts, and digital content that capture attention and deliver real value to readers. With a strong interest in storytelling, trends, and online growth, Justin helps brands and individuals connect with their audiences through clear, impactful, and creative writing.
