### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ekkathaírō**, represented by `{{G1571}}`, means **to cleanse thoroughly** or **purge out**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is derived from ἐκ (ek, "out of") and καθαίρω (kathaírō, "to cleanse"), emphasizing a complete and decisive removal of what is impure or corrupting.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1571}}` is applied in two distinct contexts: corporate purity and personal holiness. In [[1 Corinthians 5:7]], the church is commanded to "**Purge out** therefore the old leaven," using the metaphor of leaven to represent corrupting sin that must be removed from the community to preserve its integrity. In [[2 Timothy 2:21]], the focus shifts to the individual believer, stating that if a man "**purge** himself from these," he will become a vessel set apart for honorable use by God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the purpose and result of this thorough cleansing:
* `{{G37}}` **hagiázō** (to make holy, sanctify): This word is directly linked to the outcome of purging. A person who purges himself becomes "a vessel unto honour, **sanctified**" and ready for the Master's use [[2 Timothy 2:21]]. The act of purging is a step toward being made holy.
* `{{G2090}}` **hetoimázō** (to prepare, make ready): This term describes the state of readiness that follows purification. After a person is purged and sanctified, they are "**prepared** unto every good work" [[2 Timothy 2:21]]. The cleansing makes one fit and ready for service.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1571}}` is significant, highlighting the active nature of sanctification.
* **Active Purification:** The word is used as a command, indicating that believers, both individually and corporately, have a responsibility to actively cleanse themselves. One must "**purge** himself" [[2 Timothy 2:21]] and the church must "**Purge out**...the old leaven" [[1 Corinthians 5:7]].
* **A Prerequisite for Service:** Purification is presented as a necessary condition for being useful to God. Only by purging oneself can a person become "a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use" [[2 Timothy 2:21]].
* **Corporate and Individual Holiness:** The term's usage underscores that the call to purity extends to the community of believers as a whole [[1 Corinthians 5:7]] as well as to the personal life of each individual member [[2 Timothy 2:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1571}}` is a potent term for a decisive and thorough cleansing. While used sparingly, it carries a crucial message about the necessity of active purification from sin. This process, whether applied to a church community or an individual, is presented as essential for becoming holy, honorable, and ultimately prepared for every good work in the service of God.
TRV