from ἐκ and πίπτω; to drop away; specially, be driven out of one's course; figuratively, to lose, become inefficient:--be cast, fail, fall (away, off), take none effect.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ekpíptō**, represented by `{{G1601}}`, means to **drop away** or be driven out of one's course. Figuratively, it conveys the idea to **lose** or **become inefficient**. Derived from ἐκ and πίπτω, its definitions include to be cast, fail, fall away, fall off, and to take none effect. This term appears **15 times** in **13 unique verses**, illustrating its use in both literal and spiritual contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The application of `{{G1601}}` ranges from physical events to significant theological conditions. In a literal sense, it describes the chains that **fell off** Peter's hands in prison [[Acts 12:7]]. It is also used in a nautical setting to describe a ship being **cast** upon an island or being in danger of **falling** into quicksands ([[Acts 27:26]], [[Acts 27:17]]). The word takes on a metaphorical meaning when describing the temporary nature of the natural world, as when a flower **falleth** [[James 1:11]]. Theologically, it is used to warn believers against having **fallen from** grace by seeking justification through the law [[Galatians 5:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concepts of failure, loss, and grace associated with `{{G1601}}`:
* `{{G2673}}` **katargéō** (to be (render) entirely idle (useless)): This word signifies something being made of no effect or abolished. It is used to describe how Christ, through death, might **destroy** the one who had the power of death [[Hebrews 2:14]].
* `{{G4879}}` **synapágō** (to take off together, i.e. transport with): This term describes being led or carried away, often by a negative influence. Barnabas, for example, **was carried away** with the dissimulation of other Jews [[Galatians 2:13]].
* `{{G5485}}` **cháris** (graciousness): This is the word for grace from which one can fall. Its positive context is seen clearly in the statement that believers are saved by **grace** through faith [[Ephesians 2:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1601}}` is significant, often serving as a sober warning.
* **Falling from Grace:** The term is used to articulate the grave spiritual danger of abandoning faith in Christ for justification by works. In [[Galatians 5:4]], those who seek to be justified by the law are told they **are fallen from** grace.
* **Loss of Steadfastness:** Believers are warned not to be led away by error, lest they **fall from** their own steadfastness [[2 Peter 3:17]]. In Revelation, the church in Ephesus is commanded to remember from where it has **fallen** and to repent [[Revelation 2:5]].
* **Ineffectiveness vs. Permanence:** `{{G1601}}` is used to contrast what is temporary with what is eternal. While prophecies will fail and knowledge will vanish, charity (love) never **faileth** [[1 Corinthians 13:8]]. This highlights the enduring nature of God's love against things that are subject to failure.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1601}}` **ekpíptō** is a versatile word that moves from the literal sense of a physical fall to the profound spiritual sense of a fall from grace. It illustrates concepts of failure, transience, and being driven off course. Whether describing chains dropping from wrists, a flower withering, or a believer departing from a state of grace, the word serves as a powerful descriptor of loss and a solemn caution against spiritual decline.
TRV