### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ἐξολοθρεύω (exolothreúō)**, represented by `{{G1842}}`, means **to extirpate** or **destroy**. It is formed from the words `{{G1537}}` `ek`, meaning "from" or "out of," and `olothreuó`, which relates to destruction. This combination signifies a complete removal or utter destruction from a source. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its single usage particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G1842}}` is in [[Acts 3:23]], which states that "every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be **destroyed** from among the people." In this context, the word conveys a severe penalty for disobedience. The action of being **destroyed** `{{G1842}}` is a direct consequence of the refusal to **hear** `{{G191}}` the prophet. The use of the preposition "from among" `{{G1537}}` emphasizes that this is not just destruction, but a complete cutting off from the community, or "the people" `{{G2992}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify the meaning of `{{G1842}}`:
* `{{G1537}}` **ek**: As a component of the word itself, this preposition denotes **origin... from, out (of place, time, or cause)**. It highlights the separative nature of the destruction, such as being delivered "from the power of darkness" [[Colossians 1:13]] or called "out of darkness" [[1 Peter 2:9]].
* `{{G191}}` **akoúō**: This primary verb means **to hear (in various senses)**. The failure to perform this action is the catalyst for the judgment in [[Acts 3:23]]. Its importance is seen elsewhere, as believers are called to be "swift to hear" [[James 1:19]].
* `{{G2992}}` **laós**: This word for **a people (in general)** defines the community from which a soul is removed. This term is often used to describe God's covenant community, who are promised "I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people" [[Hebrews 8:10]].
* `{{G5590}}` **psychḗ**: This word for **soul** or **life** specifies that the warning applies to a person's essential being, the "animal sentient principle". The warning in [[Acts 3:23]] concerns the fate of the very soul.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1842}}` is focused on the gravity of rejecting divine communication.
* **Consequence of Rejection:** The use of `{{G1842}}` in [[Acts 3:23]] establishes a clear and severe consequence for not heeding God's prophet. The refusal to **hear** `{{G191}}` results in being completely **destroyed**.
* **Separation from the Covenant Community:** The destruction is explicitly a removal "from among the people" `{{G2992}}`. This points to excommunication or being cut off from the blessings, identity, and fellowship of God's people.
* **Accountability of the Soul:** The subject of the judgment is "every soul" `{{G5590}}`, indicating that this is a personal and total accountability. The life principle itself is at stake, underscoring the seriousness of the command to listen to the prophet.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1842}}` **exolothreúō** is a potent term whose single biblical usage carries immense weight. It signifies more than simple destruction; it means to be utterly extirpated and cut off from the community of God's people. Its appearance in [[Acts 3:23]] serves as a stark warning about the consequences of rejecting a prophet sent from God, framing the choice to listen or not as a matter of spiritual life or total separation.
TRV