The Greek word apékdysis, represented by G555, is defined as divestment or putting off. This specific term appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in scripture. Its meaning is focused on the decisive action of stripping something away, like removing a piece of clothing.
The single biblical use of G555 is in Colossians 2:11, where it illustrates a core aspect of spiritual transformation for believers in Christ. The verse explains that believers have been spiritually circumcised "in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ" Colossians 2:11. Here, the action is not physical but a metaphorical divestment, signifying a complete separation from the old, sinful nature as part of a new identity.
Several related words in Colossians 2:11 provide the context for this "putting off":
- G4061 peritomḗ (circumcision): The "putting off" is described as a spiritual circumcision. This is clarified as a "circumcision made without hands" and specifically "the circumcision of Christ" Colossians 2:11, distinguishing it from a physical rite.
- G4983 sōma (the body): This is what is being divested. The act is the "putting off" of "the body of the sins of the flesh" Colossians 2:11, suggesting the removal of sin as an organized system.
- G4561 sárx (flesh): This term identifies the origin of the sin being removed. The phrase "sins of the flesh" Colossians 2:11 connects this act to human nature with its frailties and passions.
- G266 hamartía (a sin): This specifies the nature of what is being put off. The verse describes the removal of "the body of the sins" Colossians 2:11.
- G4059 peritémnō (to circumcise): This verb form establishes the context for the "putting off." Believers "are circumcised" spiritually, and the divestment G555 explains how this spiritual action is accomplished Colossians 2:11.
The theological weight of G555 is significant despite its single appearance.
- Spiritual Transformation: The act of "putting off" is explicitly a spiritual event, a "circumcision made without hands" Colossians 2:11. This highlights an internal, divine work rather than an external, human ritual.
- Decisive Separation from Sin: G555 signifies a definitive removal of the "body of the sins of the flesh" Colossians 2:11. It represents a clean break from the old nature, which is dominated by G4561 sárx (flesh).
- The Work of Christ: This divestment is accomplished "by the circumcision of Christ" Colossians 2:11. This attributes the believer's transformation entirely to their union with Christ and His finished work, not to personal effort.
In summary, G555 apékdysis is a rare but potent theological term for divestment. Its singular use in scripture powerfully depicts the believer's spiritual separation from their old, sinful nature. As shown in Colossians 2:11, this "putting off" of the "body of the sins of the flesh" is the essence of the spiritual "circumcision of Christ," marking a foundational change in a believer's identity.
TRV