### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ekkóptō**, represented by `{{G1581}}`, means to **exscind**. It is used to convey actions like "to cut down," "cut off," "hew down," and figuratively "to hinder" or "frustrate." It appears **16 times** across **11 unique verses** in the Bible. The word signifies a decisive act of separation or removal, whether of a physical object or a spiritual hindrance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1581}}` is used to illustrate judgment and the need for spiritual decisiveness. A recurring image is that of an unfruitful tree being **hewn down** ([[Matthew 3:10]], [[Matthew 7:19]]). This metaphor extends to the parable of the fig tree, where the command is given to **cut** it **down** for cumbering the ground [[Luke 13:7]]. The term also describes the radical action required to deal with sin, as in the instruction to **cut off** a hand or foot that causes offense [[Matthew 18:8]]. In a theological sense, it is used to warn believers that they can be **cut off** from God's goodness if they do not continue in it [[Romans 11:22]], and it can also mean to be **hindered**, as with prayers [[1 Peter 3:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and consequences of the action described by `{{G1581}}`:
* `{{G513}}` **axínē** (an axe): This is the instrument of cutting. In passages of judgment, the **axe** is said to be laid at the root of the trees just before they are hewn down ([[Matthew 3:10]], [[Luke 3:9]]).
* `{{G906}}` **bállō** (to throw...cast (out)): This word often describes the action that immediately follows being cut down. Unfruitful trees are hewn down and then **cast** into the fire [[Matthew 7:19]]. Similarly, an offending hand is to be cut off and **cast** away [[Matthew 5:30]].
* `{{G1461}}` **enkentrízō** (to prick in, i.e. ingraft): This word serves as a direct contrast to being cut off. In Romans 11, while some branches are **cut** out of the olive tree `{{G1581}}`, others are **graffed in** [[Romans 11:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1581}}` is profound, centering on themes of judgment, sanctification, and divine relationship.
* **Judgment on Unfruitfulness:** The word is repeatedly used to depict the consequence for that which fails to produce good fruit. This principle applies to trees and, by extension, to people, signifying a final and decisive removal ([[Matthew 7:19]], [[Luke 13:9]]).
* **Radical Sanctification:** Its use in commands to **cut off** an offending body part underscores the seriousness of sin and the necessity of complete separation from it for spiritual life ([[Matthew 5:30]], [[Matthew 18:8]]).
* **Divine Pruning and Severity:** In the context of the olive tree, being **cut off** is a result of God's **severity** `{{G663}}` toward those who fall away from faith, illustrating that relationship with God is conditional on continuing in His goodness [[Romans 11:22]].
* **Removal of Obstacles:** Figuratively, the word applies to removing things that get in the way. Paul seeks to **cut off** occasion from his opponents [[2 Corinthians 11:12]], and husbands are warned not to act in a way that their prayers would be **hindered** [[1 Peter 3:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1581}}` **ekkóptō** is more than just a word for cutting. It represents a definitive act of separation with significant spiritual implications. From the literal hewing down of an unproductive tree to the figurative cutting off of sin, hindrances, or even people from a state of blessing, the word consistently points to a severe and decisive action. It is a cornerstone for understanding biblical concepts of judgment for unfruitfulness, the necessity of radical holiness, and the serious nature of maintaining a relationship with God.
TRV