### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun ἀθέτησις (`{{G115}}`, *athétēsis*) derives from the verb ἀθετέω (`{{G114}}`, *atheteō*), which carries the fundamental sense of "to set aside," "to reject," "to nullify," or "to make void." Consequently, ἀθέτησις denotes the act or result of such an action: a "cancellation," "disannulling," "abrogation," or "putting away." It implies rendering something ineffective, invalid, or non-binding. The term can be applied to laws, covenants, promises, or obligations, signifying their termination or removal from effect. It does not necessarily imply destruction, but rather the removal of legal or functional force.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἀθέτησις appears exclusively in the Epistle to the Hebrews, where it carries profound theological weight in two distinct, yet interconnected, contexts:
1. **[[Hebrews 7:18]]**: "For on the one hand, a former commandment is set aside [γὰρ ἀθέτησις γίνεται προαγούσης ἐντολῆς] because of its weakness and uselessness." Here, ἀθέτησις refers to the abrogation of the Levitical law, specifically the commandment concerning the priesthood based on the tribe of Levi. The author argues that this system was "weak and useless" (ἀσθενὲς καὶ ἀνωφελὲς) because it could not bring about perfection. The "setting aside" or "disannulling" of this older ordinance is presented as a necessary precursor to the establishment of a superior priesthood, that of Melchizedek, embodied by Christ. It signifies a transition from an imperfect, preparatory system to a perfect, ultimate one, not a condemnation of God's earlier revelation but its fulfillment and transcendence.
2. **[[Hebrews 9:26]]**: "Otherwise, He would have had to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now once at the consummation of the ages He has been manifested to put away sin [εἰς ἀθέτησιν ἁμαρτίας] by the sacrifice of Himself." In this pivotal verse, ἀθέτησις describes the ultimate purpose and effect of Christ's singular sacrifice. His death is presented as the decisive act that renders sin null and void, effectively "putting away" its power, guilt, and condemnation. This is not merely a covering of sin, but its effective cancellation, removing its damning effect and opening the way for reconciliation with God. The phrase "consummation of the ages" underscores the finality and completeness of this act, contrasting it with the repetitive sacrifices of the Old Covenant.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verb from which ἀθέτησις is derived, ἀθετέω (`{{G114}}`). This verb is used in the New Testament to describe the rejection of God's purpose ([[Luke 7:30]]), the nullification of a promise ([[Galatians 3:15]]), or the setting aside of a commandment ([[Mark 7:9]]).
Other related concepts and words that convey similar ideas of nullification or abolition include:
* **καταργέω (`{{G2673}}`)**: To abolish, render ineffective, bring to an end. Used for the abolition of the Law ([[Romans 7:6]]), death ([[2 Timothy 1:10]]), or the old covenant ([[2 Corinthians 3:13]]).
* **ἀκυρόω (`{{G208}}`)**: To make void, invalidate. Used in reference to human traditions making void the word of God ([[Matthew 15:6]], [[Mark 7:13]]).
* **Παλαιά (`{{G3820}}`) / Καινή (`{{G2537}}`)**: The contrast between "old" and "new" covenant, particularly prominent in Hebrews, provides the backdrop for the "disannulling" of the former.
* **Τελείωσις (`{{G5050}}`)**: Perfection/completion. The "disannulling" of the old covenant in Hebrews 7 is directly tied to its inability to bring about perfection, which is achieved through Christ.
* **Θυσία (`{{G2378}}`)**: Sacrifice. The "putting away of sin" is achieved "by the sacrifice of Himself," highlighting the efficacy of Christ's atonement.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἀθέτησις is profound, particularly within the framework of the Epistle to the Hebrews. It speaks to the dynamic and progressive nature of God's redemptive plan, culminating in Christ.
Firstly, the "disannulling" of the former commandment concerning the priesthood ([[Hebrews 7:18]]) underscores the **superiority and finality of the New Covenant**. It signifies that the Old Covenant, while divinely ordained for a time, was provisional and preparatory. Its weakness lay in its inability to perfect the worshiper or provide a lasting solution to sin. The abrogation of this system is not a sign of God's failure, but of His faithfulness in bringing forth a more excellent way through Christ, who serves as a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek. This transition highlights the **progressive revelation** of God's will and the **perfection** found only in Christ.
Secondly, and most crucially, the "putting away of sin" by Christ's sacrifice ([[Hebrews 9:26]]) is central to **Christian soteriology and Christology**. This is not merely a covering or a temporary pardon, but a definitive nullification of sin's power and guilt. Christ's single, perfect sacrifice achieves what the repeated sacrifices of the Old Testament could not: a complete and final removal of the barrier of sin between God and humanity. This emphasizes the **efficacy, uniqueness, and finality of Christ's atoning work**. It means that for those in Christ, sin no longer holds its condemning power, its legal claim has been abrogated, and its dominion broken. This act signifies the **consummation of God's redemptive purpose** in history, providing a perfect and eternal cleansing.
### Summary
The Greek term ἀθέτησις (`{{G115}}`) denotes a "cancellation," "disannulling," or "putting away," signifying the rendering of something void or ineffective. In the New Testament, it appears exclusively in the Epistle to the Hebrews, where it carries two critical theological implications. First, in [[Hebrews 7:18]], it describes the **abrogation of the former Levitical commandment** and priesthood, highlighting its weakness and the subsequent establishment of the superior, perfect priesthood of Christ. Second, and more profoundly, in [[Hebrews 9:26]], it refers to Christ's ultimate act of **"putting away sin"** through His singular, perfect sacrifice. This signifies the decisive and final nullification of sin's power and guilt, demonstrating the completeness and efficacy of God's redemptive work in Christ. Thus, ἀθέτησις encapsulates the transition from the provisional to the perfect, and the decisive victory over sin achieved through the cross.
TRV