### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun G4067 περίψωμα (perípsōma) is derived from a compound structure, combining the preposition περί (peri), meaning "around" or "about," with a verbal root related to rubbing, wiping, or scraping. Literally, it denotes "something rubbed off all around," "off-scrapings," or "residue." Its semantic range extends from this literal sense to a strong figurative application, signifying "scum," "refuse," "filth," or "that which is discarded as worthless." It conveys a profound sense of abjectness and utter contempt, representing the lowest and most despised elements.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G4067 περίψωμα (perípsōma) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[1 Corinthians 4:13]]. In this passage, the Apostle Paul employs it with striking rhetorical force to describe the apostles' status in the eyes of the world: "We have become as the offscouring of the world, the dregs of all things, even until now."
The immediate context of [[1 Corinthians 4:9-13]] reveals Paul's deep irony, contrasting the Corinthians' self-perceived wisdom, strength, and honor with the apostles' divinely ordained weakness, foolishness, and dishonor. Paul lists a litany of sufferings and humiliations endured by the apostles: hunger, thirst, nakedness, abuse, homelessness, toil, and persecution. The climax of this description is their designation as περίψωμα (perípsōma).
Significantly, Paul pairs περίψωμα (perípsōma) with περικάθαρμα (perikatharma) `{{G4026}}` in the same verse, both terms conveying the idea of refuse or something cast off. While περικάθαρμα (perikatharma) can sometimes refer to a sacrificial expiation (a "purging" or "cleansing" by casting off something, even a person, as a scapegoat), here both words function primarily to emphasize the apostles' utter contemptibility in the world's view. They are treated as the lowest of the low, the discarded waste of humanity, precisely because of their commitment to the gospel of Christ.
### Related Words & Concepts
* περικάθαρμα (perikatharma) `{{G4026}}`: As noted, this word is directly parallel to περίψωμα (perípsōma) in [[1 Corinthians 4:13]]. While its literal meaning relates to "cleansing" or "purging," its application here is ironic, referring to that which is cast off as refuse during a cleansing, or even a person sacrificed as an expiatory victim. Both words powerfully articulate the apostles' debased status.
* σκύβαλον (skybalon) `{{G4657}}`: This term, found in [[Philippians 3:8]], means "refuse," "dung," or "excrement." It similarly conveys extreme worthlessness and contempt, though it is not directly linked to the idea of being "scraped off."
* Concepts of Humiliation and Suffering: The use of περίψωμα (perípsōma) resonates with broader biblical themes of suffering for righteousness' sake ([[Matthew 5:10-12]]), being counted as sheep for the slaughter ([[Romans 8:36]], quoting [[Psalm 44:22]]), and the paradox of strength found in weakness ([[2 Corinthians 12:9-10]]). It aligns with the self-emptying (κένωσις, kenosis) of Christ Himself ([[Philippians 2:7]]).
### Theological Significance
The single occurrence of G4067 περίψωμα (perípsōma) in [[1 Corinthians 4:13]] carries profound theological weight:
1. **Apostolic Humility and Identification with Christ:** The apostles, as true servants of Christ, embraced a life of profound humility and suffering. Their status as περίψωμα (perípsōma) directly mirrors the humiliation of Christ, who "made himself nothing" ([[Philippians 2:7]]) and was "despised and rejected by men" ([[Isaiah 53:3]]). By being treated as the "scum of the earth," they identified deeply with their suffering Lord, demonstrating that true spiritual authority in the Kingdom of God often manifests in weakness and abasement, not worldly power or prestige.
2. **Paradox of the Gospel:** The world views the apostles as περίψωμα (perípsōma), but from God's perspective, they are His chosen instruments, bearing the message of salvation. This highlights the radical inversion of values inherent in the gospel: what the world considers foolish, God uses to shame the wise; what the world despises, God exalts. The "offscouring" of the world becomes the vessel for divine truth.
3. **Cost of Discipleship:** The term underscores the inherent cost of radical discipleship and faithful gospel proclamation. To truly follow Christ often means incurring the world's scorn, rejection, and contempt. It serves as a stark reminder that the path of Christ's followers is not one of worldly acclaim but often one of suffering and marginalization.
4. **Divine Purpose in Suffering:** While the apostles were treated as worthless, their suffering was not meaningless. It served to glorify God, validate their message, and provide a pattern for future generations of believers. Their abasement was part of God's plan to demonstrate His power through weakness and to build His church.
### Summary
G4067 περίψωμα (perípsōma) literally denotes "off-scrapings" or "scum," conveying an extreme sense of worthlessness and contempt. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[1 Corinthians 4:13]] powerfully describes the apostles' abased status in the eyes of the world, where they were treated as the "offscouring" or "refuse." Theologically, this term illuminates several critical themes: the apostles' profound identification with the suffering and humility of Christ, the paradoxical nature of the gospel that overturns worldly values, and the inherent cost of authentic discipleship. It underscores that true spiritual authority and impact often emerge not from worldly honor but from a willingness to embrace contempt and suffering for the sake of Christ and His Kingdom.
TRV