### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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