### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apánchomai**, represented by `{{G519}}`, is a specific term used to describe the act of strangling oneself to death. Its definition is derived from ἀπό and a word meaning to choke. This word is exceedingly rare in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G519}}` is found in the account of Judas Iscariot's death. After returning his payment for betraying Jesus, he "cast down{G4496} the pieces of silver{G694} in{G1722} the temple{G3485}, and departed{G402}, and{G2532} went{G565} and **hanged himself**{G519}" [[Matthew 27:5]]. The word captures the final, desperate action taken by Judas immediately following his departure from the temple.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the surrounding verse provide a fuller picture of this event:
* `{{G4496}}` **rhíptō** (cast down): This verb means "to fling" or "to deposit (as if a load)". It describes Judas's forceful rejection of the silver pieces in the temple.
* `{{G402}}` **anachōréō** (departed): Meaning "to retire" or "withdraw self," this word signifies Judas's deliberate removal from the scene in the temple.
* `{{G565}}` **apérchomai** (went): This word means "to go off" or "depart." It describes the final journey Judas took leading to the act of hanging himself.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G519}}` is tied directly to its singular, tragic context.
* **Finality of Action:** The definition "to strangle oneself off (i.e. to death)" underscores the irreversible and ultimate nature of the act.
* **Physical Consequence:** Its use in [[Matthew 27:5]] presents a direct physical consequence following the act of casting down the silver, linking the rejection of his payment to his self-destruction.
* **Isolation in Death:** The preceding words describing departure—`{{G402}}` and `{{G565}}`—emphasize a withdrawal and separation that culminates in the solitary act described by `{{G519}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G519}}` is a highly specific and impactful word. While appearing only once, its placement in the narrative of Judas's final moments makes it significant. It doesn't just mean "to die," but points specifically to the method of self-strangulation, concluding a sequence of actions that begins with the rejection of the "pieces of silver" and ends with a final, solitary departure from life.
TRV