### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ektrépō**, represented by `{{G1624}}`, means **to deflect or turn away**, either literally or figuratively. It is defined as to "avoid, turn (aside, out of the way)." This term appears **6 times** in **5 unique verses**, often carrying a strong negative connotation of deviating from a correct path or truth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1624}}` is used to illustrate a departure from truth and righteousness. The Apostle Paul employs it multiple times in his letters to Timothy, warning him to be "**avoiding** profane and vain babblings" [[1 Timothy 6:20]]. He describes how some have already "**turned aside** unto vain jangling" [[1 Timothy 1:6]] or even "**turned aside** after Satan" [[1 Timothy 5:15]]. In a different context, the author of Hebrews uses the term to admonish believers to make straight paths, lest the lame be "**turned out of the way**" [[Hebrews 12:13]], connecting physical weakness to spiritual deviation. The word also describes a future action where people will be "**turned** unto fables" [[2 Timothy 4:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the nature of what one turns away from or towards:
* `{{G795}}` **astochéō** (to miss the mark): This word is used alongside `{{G1624}}` to describe those who, "having swerved have turned aside" [[1 Timothy 1:6]]. It specifically means to deviate from truth.
* `{{G3454}}` **mŷthos** (fable): This is the destination for those who turn away from the truth. The warning is that they "shall be turned unto fables" [[2 Timothy 4:4]], indicating a turn towards fiction or myth.
* `{{G2757}}` **kenophōnía** (vain babblings): Believers are explicitly instructed to avoid this. It is defined as "empty sounding, i.e. fruitless discussion" and is linked with that which is profane [[1 Timothy 6:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1624}}` is significant, highlighting the danger of spiritual and doctrinal deviation.
* **Warning Against False Teaching:** The term is consistently used in the pastoral epistles to warn against turning away from truth. This deviation leads towards things like "vain jangling" [[1 Timothy 1:6]], "fables" [[2 Timothy 4:4]], and "science falsely so called" [[1 Timothy 6:20]].
* **The Spiritual Danger of Apostasy:** Turning aside is not presented as a harmless error. It is a path that can ultimately lead one to follow "**after** Satan" [[1 Timothy 5:15]], indicating a complete change of allegiance from Christ to the accuser.
* **Responsibility for the Community:** The use in [[Hebrews 12:13]] extends the concept from personal error to communal responsibility. Believers are called to "**make** straight paths" so that the spiritually weak or "lame" are not "**turned out of the way**," but are instead healed.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1624}}` **ektrépō** is more than a simple term for deflection. It serves as a potent biblical warning against straying from the path of truth and righteousness. Whether it is used to command avoidance of "profane and vain babblings" [[1 Timothy 6:20]] or to describe the tragic state of those who have "turned aside after Satan" [[1 Timothy 5:15]], the word consistently underscores the critical importance of spiritual steadfastness and doctrinal integrity. It is a call to actively guard one's faith and to help others avoid being turned aside.
TRV