from ἐκ and κλίνω; to deviate, i.e. (absolutely) to shun (literally or figuratively), or (relatively) to decline (from piety):--avoid, eschew, go out of the way.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ekklínō**, represented by `{{G1578}}`, means to deviate, shun, or go out of the way. Derived from ἐκ and κλίνω, its core idea is to decline from a path, whether literally or figuratively. It appears 4 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1578}}` carries two distinct applications. It is presented as a strong pastoral command to **avoid** those who cause divisions and offenses that contradict established doctrine [[Romans 16:17]]. It is also used as a moral imperative to **eschew** evil, an action that must be paired with doing good and seeking peace [[1 Peter 3:11]]. Finally, the term describes the universal condition of humanity, stating that all have **gone out of the way**, a deviation that renders them unprofitable [[Romans 3:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and application of `{{G1578}}`:
* `{{G4648}}` **skopéō**: from σκοπός; to take aim at (spy), i.e. (figuratively) regard:--consider, take heed, look at (on), mark. This action of carefully marking or regarding others is presented as a necessary step before one can **avoid** those causing division [[Romans 16:17]].
* `{{G1377}}` **diṓkō**: a prolonged (and causative) form of a primary verb (to flee; compare the base of δειλός and διάκονος); to pursue (literally or figuratively); by implication, to persecute:--ensue, follow (after), given to, (suffer) persecute(-ion), press forward. This is the positive counterpart to `{{G1578}}`; after one must **eschew** evil, one must then actively pursue, or **ensue**, peace [[1 Peter 3:11]].
* `{{G889}}` **achreióō**: from ἀχρεῖος; to render useless, i.e. spoil:--become unprofitable. This word is directly linked with `{{G1578}}` to show the consequence of deviation. All who have **gone out of the way** have together **become unprofitable** [[Romans 3:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1578}}` is significant and applied in several ways:
* **Corporate Purity:** The command in [[Romans 16:17]] to **avoid** certain people is a measure to protect the church from doctrinal corruption. It is an intentional action taken after one is besought `{{G3870}}` to mark `{{G4648}}` those who cause **divisions** `{{G1370}}` and **offences** `{{G4625}}`.
* **Active Righteousness:** In [[1 Peter 3:11]], turning away from evil is not a passive state. It is the first part of a two-fold command: one must first **eschew** evil, then proactively **do** `{{G4160}}` good, **seek** `{{G2212}}` peace, and **ensue** `{{G1377}}` it.
* **Universal Fallenness:** The term's use in [[Romans 3:12]] provides a sober diagnosis of the human condition apart from God. To have **gone out of the way** is to be in a state of unprofitableness, establishing the basis for the universal need for God's grace.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1578}}` is a powerful word that communicates more than simple avoidance. It serves as a command for maintaining both personal holiness and corporate health by deliberately turning from evil and divisive influences. At the same time, it defines the natural state of humanity as having deviated from God's way, making it a crucial term for understanding both Christian ethics and the foundational need for salvation.
TRV