### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **rhýpos**, represented by `{{G4509}}`, refers to **filth**. It is defined as dirt or, in a moral sense, depravity. This word appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, where it is used to make a specific theological distinction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G4509}}` occurs in the context of baptism. The scripture clarifies that baptism saves believers, not by the "putting away of the **filth** of the flesh," but as "the answer of a good conscience toward God" [[1 Peter 3:21]]. Here, **rhýpos** signifies a superficial, physical dirtiness, which is contrasted with the true, internal work of salvation that addresses the conscience through the power of Christ's resurrection.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify the meaning of `{{G4509}}`:
* `{{G595}}` **apóthesis** (putting away): This word means "a laying aside." Its use alongside `{{G4509}}` emphasizes that baptism is not merely a "laying aside" or removal of physical dirt [[1 Peter 3:21]].
* `{{G4561}}` **sárx** (flesh): Defined as the body or human nature with its frailties and passions. The **filth** mentioned is specifically "of the **flesh**," pointing to an external or carnal state rather than a spiritual one [[1 Peter 3:21]]. The works of the **flesh** are described as manifest [[Galatians 5:19]].
* `{{G908}}` **báptisma** (baptism): This is the central ordinance being discussed. The passage explains that the power of **baptism** is not in an outward cleansing but in its connection to a spiritual reality [[1 Peter 3:21]].
* `{{G4893}}` **syneídēsis** (conscience): Meaning "moral consciousness," this is presented as the positive counterpart to the filth of the flesh. Baptism is effective as an appeal to God from a good **conscience** [[1 Peter 3:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4509}}` is derived entirely from its specific, contrasting use in [[1 Peter 3:21]].
* **External vs. Internal Cleansing:** The primary function of `{{G4509}}` is to draw a sharp line between external ritual and internal reality. It represents the physical "dirt" that a simple washing can remove, which stands in contrast to the deep, spiritual transformation that salvation entails.
* **The Nature of True Purity:** By dismissing the "putting away of the **filth** `{{G4509}}` of the flesh `{{G4561}}`," the passage defines true Christian purity not as an outward state but as a "good `{{G18}}` conscience `{{G4893}}` toward God `{{G2316}}`."
* **The Source of Salvation:** The use of **rhýpos** forces the reader to look beyond the physical water of baptism to the true source of its saving power: the resurrection `{{G386}}` of Jesus `{{G2424}}` Christ `{{G5547}}` [[1 Peter 3:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4509}}` is a highly specific term whose sole biblical appearance serves a crucial theological purpose. It is used negatively to define what baptism is *not*—a mere washing of physical **filth**. By doing so, it elevates the understanding of baptism from a simple external rite to a profound spiritual reality, an appeal to God from a clean conscience made possible only through the resurrection of Christ.
TRV