### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apelaúnō**, represented by `{{G556}}`, means **to dismiss** or **drive**. It is formed from the words `{{G575}}` **apó** and ἐλαύνω. This very specific term is quite rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the New Testament.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G556}}` is in [[Acts 18:16]]. In this passage, the Roman deputy Gallio **drave** a group of people away from his place of authority. The verse states, "And he **drave** them from the judgment seat" [[Acts 18:16]]. This action signifies a forceful and conclusive dismissal, demonstrating the word's meaning of actively expelling or rejecting something.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{G556}}` is illuminated by its component parts and the words used in its immediate context:
* `{{G575}}` **apó** ("off," i.e. away): This particle forms the prefix of `{{G556}}`, providing the sense of separation or departure. It is used throughout scripture to denote being away **from** something, such as being called to depart **from** iniquity [[2 Timothy 2:19]].
* `{{G968}}` **bēma** (judgment-seat): This is the location from which the subjects were driven in the only use of `{{G556}}`. The term signifies an official tribunal or place of judgment, such as the **judgment seat** of Christ [[Romans 14:10]].
* `{{G846}}` **autós** (self, him, them): This pronoun identifies the object of the action in [[Acts 18:16]], indicating those who were driven away. It is used broadly to refer to individuals, such as in God's promise, "I will be **their** God, and **they** shall be my people" [[2 Corinthians 6:16]].
* `{{G2532}}` **kaí** (and, also): This common particle connects the action of driving away to the surrounding narrative. It serves to link actions and ideas, as seen in "seek, **and** ye shall find" [[Luke 11:9]].
### Theological Significance
Though used only once, the context of `{{G556}}` touches on significant theological ideas:
* **Human vs. Divine Judgment:** The act of driving away in [[Acts 18:16]] occurs at a human **judgment seat** `{{G968}}`. This earthly dismissal from a human authority contrasts sharply with the scriptural teaching that all people will stand before the **judgment seat** of Christ [[2 Corinthians 5:10]].
* **The Principle of Separation:** The word's root, `{{G575}}` **apó**, emphasizes a movement "away from." This concept is echoed in theological commands for believers to separate themselves, such as being cleansed **from** all unrighteousness [[1 John 1:9]].
* **Jurisdictional Authority:** In its singular biblical use, `{{G556}}` describes an exercise of secular authority. Gallio's dismissal of the case highlights the distinction between earthly governance and spiritual matters within the biblical narrative.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G556}}` **apelaúnō** is a rare but potent verb meaning **to drive** away. Its single use in [[Acts 18:16]] provides a clear picture of a forceful dismissal from a place of judgment. While its direct scriptural footprint is small, its components and context connect to the larger biblical themes of authority, separation, and the profound difference between human and divine judgment.
TRV