### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G1575 (ἐκκλάω, ekkláō) is a compound word derived from the preposition ἐκ (ek, `{{G1537}}`), meaning "out of" or "from," and the verb κλάω (klaō, `{{G2806}}`), meaning "to break." Thus, its core meaning is "to break off" or "to break out from." The prefix ἐκ emphasizes a complete separation or removal from a larger whole. The term inherently carries the sense of a forceful or decisive severance, implying that something is detached from its original connection, often with a degree of violence or finality in the physical sense. Its semantic range is quite narrow, primarily denoting physical fragmentation or separation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb G1575 (ekkláō) appears exclusively in the New Testament within Paul's epistle to the Romans, specifically in chapter 11, where it is used three times in the context of the olive tree analogy. This analogy illustrates the relationship between Israel and the Gentile believers in God's redemptive plan.
1. **[[Romans 11:17]]**: "But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, although a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing root of the olive tree..." Here, ekkláō describes the removal of certain natural branches (representing unbelieving Israelites) from the cultivated olive tree (representing God's covenant people). This breaking off is a consequence of their unbelief.
2. **[[Romans 11:19]]**: "Then you will say, 'Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.'" The Gentile reader anticipates this boast, highlighting their perception that Israel's rejection was for their benefit. Paul immediately addresses and corrects this potentially arrogant assumption.
3. **[[Romans 11:20]]**: "That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but tremble." Paul affirms that the breaking off was indeed due to unbelief (ἀπιστία, apistia, `{{G570}}`) and serves as a warning to the grafted-in Gentiles, implying that they too could be broken off if they do not persist in faith.
In each instance, ekkláō denotes a divine act of judgment and separation, specifically the removal of those who, despite their natural connection, have forfeited their place within the covenant community due to their lack of faith. It underscores the conditional nature of remaining in God's favor, even for those who might appear to have an inherent claim.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of G1575 is illuminated by its constituent parts and by contrasting concepts within the same passage.
* **κλάω (klaō, `{{G2806}}`)**: The base verb, meaning "to break," often used for breaking bread. Here, the prefix ἐκ (ek) adds the crucial dimension of "breaking *off*."
* **ἐκκόπτω (ekkopto, `{{G1602}}`)**: "To cut off," "to hew down." While similar in outcome (removal), ekkláō specifically implies a snapping or breaking, fitting the branch analogy more precisely than a general "cutting."
* **ἀποκόπτω (apokopto, `{{G609}}`)**: "To cut off," "to amputate." This also denotes severance but is not used in the olive tree context.
* **ἐγκεντρίζω (enkentrizō, `{{G1458}}`)**: "To graft in." This word represents the inverse action to ekkláō within the Romans 11 analogy. The breaking off of natural branches makes way for the grafting in of wild branches, highlighting God's sovereign ability to include and exclude based on His criteria.
* **ἀπιστία (apistia, `{{G570}}`)**: "Unbelief." This is explicitly stated as the reason for the branches being "broken off" in [[Romans 11:20]].
* **πίστις (pistis, `{{G4102}}`)**: "Faith." This is the counterpoint to unbelief, the condition by which one remains grafted in.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of G1575 in Romans 11 carries profound theological implications:
1. **Divine Judgment and Sovereignty**: The act of "breaking off" is presented as God's sovereign prerogative. It demonstrates His righteous judgment against unbelief, even among those who were naturally privileged. This underscores that God's covenant promises are not unconditional for individuals but require a response of faith.
2. **The Nature of the Covenant People**: The olive tree analogy, and specifically the "breaking off" of branches, clarifies that inclusion in God's true covenant people is not solely based on physical descent (being a "natural branch") but fundamentally on faith in Him. Those who lack faith, regardless of their heritage, can be removed.
3. **Warning to Gentile Believers**: The repeated use of ekkláō serves as a severe warning to Gentile Christians. Paul uses the fate of the "broken off" branches to admonish Gentile arrogance and self-sufficiency. If God did not spare the natural branches, He will not spare the grafted-in branches if they succumb to unbelief or pride ([[Romans 11:21]]). This emphasizes the ongoing need for humility and dependence on God's grace.
4. **God's Faithfulness and Mercy**: While ekkláō highlights judgment, the broader context of Romans 11 also speaks to God's continued faithfulness to His promises to Israel and His capacity for mercy. The possibility of the "natural branches" being "grafted in again" if they do not persist in unbelief ([[Romans 11:23]]) demonstrates God's persistent love and power to restore.
### Summary
The Greek verb G1575 (ekkláō), meaning "to break off," is a highly significant term despite its limited occurrences in the New Testament. Found exclusively in [[Romans 11:17]], [[Romans 11:19]], and [[Romans 11:20]], it is central to Paul's olive tree analogy, illustrating God's dealings with Israel and the Gentiles. Ekkláō vividly describes the divine act of removing those "natural branches" (unbelieving Israelites) from the covenant community due to their unbelief. This act of "breaking off" serves as a stark warning to grafted-in Gentile believers against arrogance and a reminder that their continued inclusion is contingent upon faith. The term underscores God's sovereign judgment, the nature of His true people as defined by faith, and the ongoing need for humility before Him.
TRV