### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apekdýomai**, represented by `{{G554}}`, means to "divest wholly oneself, or (for oneself) despoil." It is commonly translated as **put off** or **spoil**. This specific term appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, yet it carries significant weight in its contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{G554}}` in scripture highlight a dual application of its meaning. First, it is used to describe Christ's victory over spiritual forces, where he is depicted as having **spoiled** principalities and powers [[Colossians 2:15]]. In its second use, it shifts to the believer's personal responsibility, instructing them that they have **put off** the old man with his deeds, a prerequisite to no longer lying to one another [[Colossians 3:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the contexts in which `{{G554}}` is used:
* `{{G746}}` **archḗ**: This word means "a commencement, or (concretely) chief... principality, rule." It is used to describe the spiritual **principalities** that were spoiled by Christ [[Colossians 2:15]] and against which believers wrestle [[Ephesians 6:12]].
* `{{G3820}}` **palaiós**: Meaning "antique, i.e. not recent, worn out:--old," this term defines the **old** man, the former self that believers are to have put off [[Colossians 3:9]]. This concept is also referenced in [[Romans 6:6]] where the "old man is crucified with him."
* `{{G4234}}` **prâxis**: This term is defined as "practice, i.e. (concretely) an act; by extension, a function:--deed, office, work." It refers to the **deeds** of the old man that are to be shed along with the old nature itself [[Colossians 3:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G554}}` is seen in its application to both Christ's work and the Christian life.
* **Christ's Victorious Disarmament:** The word is used to express the totality of Christ's victory. By "spoiling" principalities `{{G746}}` and powers `{{G1849}}`, he has disarmed and divested them of their authority [[Colossians 2:15]].
* **Decisive Sanctification:** For the believer, "putting off" the old `{{G3820}}` man is not a gradual process but a decisive action. This act is linked to a change in behavior, such as ceasing to lie `{{G5574}}` [[Colossians 3:9]].
* **Shedding the Old Nature:** The concept of putting off the "old man with his deeds `{{G4234}}`" signifies a complete break from a former way of life, much like taking off a set of worn-out clothes. This act is a fundamental aspect of the believer's new identity.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G554}}` is a powerful verb that conveys a sense of complete and decisive removal. It uniquely captures both the cosmic victory of Christ over spiritual powers and the personal, transformative act required of believers. It demonstrates that the same power that **spoiled** hostile principalities is at work in the believer who has **put off** the old man and his deeds.
TRV