### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The word ἀπαράβατος (aparábatos, `{{G531}}`) is a compound adjective formed from the privative alpha (ἀ-), which negates or reverses the meaning of a word, and a derivative of the verb παραβαίνω (parabainō, `{{G3845}}`). The verb παραβαίνω carries the literal sense of "to step over," "to pass by," or "to go beyond," and can also signify "to transgress." When combined with the privative alpha, ἀπαράβατος therefore means "not passing away," "not transferable," "unchangeable," or "perpetual." Its core semantic range emphasizes an enduring, unalterable state or quality, particularly concerning an office or function that remains perpetually valid and cannot be superseded, abolished, or transferred to another.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἀπαράβατος (aparábatos, `{{G531}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the Epistle to the Hebrews: [[Hebrews 7:24]].
In this sole occurrence, the word is employed to describe the priesthood of Jesus Christ: "but he, because he continues forever, has his priesthood ἀπαράβατος (aparábatos)." The immediate context of Hebrews 7 is a detailed theological argument contrasting the temporary and imperfect Levitical priesthood with the eternal and perfect priesthood of Christ, established "after the order of Melchizedek" ([[Hebrews 7:11]], [[Hebrews 7:17]]).
The author of Hebrews highlights the limitations of the Levitical system, noting that its priests were numerous because death prevented them from continuing in office ([[Hebrews 7:23]]). In stark contrast, Christ's priesthood is presented as superior because it is ἀπαράβατος. This signifies that His priesthood is not subject to succession due to death, nor can its efficacy, authority, or office be diminished, transferred, or passed on to another. Christ's eternal life and resurrection ensure the perpetual validity and effectiveness of His priestly ministry, rendering it unique, permanent, and requiring no successor.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **παραβαίνω (parabainō, `{{G3845}}`):** The root verb from which ἀπαράβατος is derived. While παραβαίνω often connotes "transgressing" (e.g., [[Matthew 15:2]], [[Acts 1:25]]), its literal meaning of "passing over" or "passing by" is fundamental to understanding ἀπαράβατος as "not passing away" or "not transferable."
* **αἰώνιος (aiōnios, `{{G166}}`):** "Eternal," "everlasting." While not a direct synonym, αἰώνιος describes the *duration* of Christ's priesthood, complementing ἀπαράβατος which describes its *unchangeable nature* and *nontransferability*. Christ's priesthood is eternal, and therefore inherently unchangeable.
* **ἀμετάθετος (ametatheton, `{{G276}}`):** "Immutable," "unchangeable." This term is used in [[Hebrews 6:18]] to describe God's purpose and oath. It shares the semantic field of immutability with ἀπαράβατος, though ἀπαράβατος specifically emphasizes the idea of not being superseded or transferred from one to another.
* **ἀκατάλυτος (akatalytos, `{{G183}}`):** "Indestructible," "indissoluble." Used in [[Hebrews 7:16]] to describe the "power of an indestructible life" by which Christ became High Priest. This concept is intrinsically linked to ἀπαράβατος, as Christ's indestructible life is the very foundation for His unchangeable and nontransferable priesthood.
### Theological Significance
The designation of Christ's priesthood as ἀπαράβατος (aparábatos, `{{G531}}`) is of profound theological significance, forming a cornerstone of the Epistle to the Hebrews' Christology and soteriology. It decisively establishes the absolute superiority and finality of Christ's priestly ministry over the Old Covenant Levitical system.
* **Permanence and Efficacy:** Because Christ's priesthood is ἀπαράβατος, His intercession for believers is perpetual and eternally effective. There is no need for repeated sacrifices or a succession of priests, as His one sacrifice is sufficient and His intercessory work never ceases ([[Hebrews 7:25]]). This ensures the enduring efficacy of His saving work.
* **Mediatorial Uniqueness:** This unchangeable priesthood underscores Christ's unique and singular role as the sole mediator between God and humanity. No other priest or sacrifice can supersede or replace Him. His office is not transferable because He lives forever to execute it perfectly.
* **Assurance for Believers:** The ἀπαράβατος nature of Christ's priesthood provides immense assurance to believers. Since His priestly work is permanent and cannot be abrogated, the salvation, access to God, and ongoing intercession He provides are equally secure and enduring. It signifies a New Covenant that is not subject to human failure, the limitations of mortality, or the need for renewal.
* **Fulfillment of Prophecy:** This concept aligns perfectly with the prophetic anticipation of a priest "after the order of Melchizedek" ([[Psalm 110:4]]), a priesthood that is singular, eternal, and enduring, unlike the temporary and successive Levitical line.
### Summary
The Greek word ἀπαράβατος (aparábatos, `{{G531}}`) signifies "unchangeable," "not passing away," or "nontransferable." Its singular yet highly impactful occurrence in [[Hebrews 7:24]] describes the priesthood of Jesus Christ. In contrast to the mortal and successive Levitical priests, Christ's priesthood is ἀπαράβατος because He "continues forever." This term highlights the perpetual validity, eternal efficacy, and absolute uniqueness of Christ's mediatorial role. It assures believers that their High Priest lives forever to intercede for them, providing a secure and unchangeable salvation founded upon His indestructible life and singular, perfect sacrifice. The concept of ἀπαράβατος thus firmly establishes the profound superiority and finality of the New Covenant priesthood in Christ.
TRV