### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apelegmós**, represented by `{{G557}}`, means refutation or, by implication, contempt, and is translated as **nought**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in the Bible. Its meaning centers on the idea of being utterly discredited or brought to a state of complete invalidation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G557}}` occurs in [[Acts 19:27]]. Here, a silversmith expresses fear that his trade is in danger of being set at **nought**. This concern is not just economic; he worries that the preaching of the apostles will lead to the temple of the goddess Diana being despised and her "magnificence" `{{G3168}}` being "destroyed" `{{G2507}}`. The word captures the potential for a belief system and its associated practices to be so thoroughly refuted that they become worthless and contemptible in the public eye.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its only context illuminate the concept of being brought to nothing:
* `{{G2793}}` **kindyneúō** (to be in danger): This term describes the state of peril or jeopardy that precedes being set at **nought**. The silversmiths' craft is **in danger** [[Acts 19:27]], just as the disciples were **in jeopardy** during a storm [[Luke 8:23]].
* `{{G2507}}` **kathairéō** (destroy): This word signifies the ultimate outcome of being refuted. It means to demolish or pull down, as seen in the fear that Diana's magnificence would be **destroyed** [[Acts 19:27]] or in the call to cast **down** imaginations that oppose God [[2 Corinthians 10:5]].
* `{{G3049}}` **logízomai** (to take an inventory, i.e. estimate): In the context of [[Acts 19:27]], this is part of the phrase translated as "despised," indicating that the temple would be *esteemed* or reckoned as nothing. It highlights the mental calculation of worth, which can also be used positively, as when faith is **counted** for righteousness [[Romans 4:5]].
* `{{G3168}}` **megaleiótēs** (magnificence): This is the quality that is threatened with being brought to **nought**. It refers to splendor or majesty, such as the **majesty** of Christ [[2 Peter 1:16]] or the **mighty power** of God [[Luke 9:43]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual significance of `{{G557}}` is seen in the reaction it provokes:
* **The Power of Truth:** The word's sole appearance demonstrates the perceived power of the Gospel to invalidate established falsehoods. The silversmiths feared that the Christian message would result in the complete refutation of their idolatrous worship [[Acts 19:27]].
* **Fragility of Idolatry:** The concern that the "magnificence" `{{G3168}}` of a goddess could be brought to **nought** highlights the inherent instability of man-made worship. This stands in contrast to the eternal "mighty power" `{{G3168}}` of God, which cannot be refuted [[Luke 9:43]].
* **Economic and Social Impact:** The use of `{{G557}}` is directly linked to a "craft" `{{G3313}}` being put "in danger" `{{G2793}}`. This shows that the refutation of false beliefs carries tangible social and economic consequences, sparking the uproar in Ephesus [[Acts 19:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G557}}` is a potent but rarely used word signifying total refutation and contempt. Its single biblical appearance in [[Acts 19:27]] vividly portrays the fear that the apostolic proclamation of truth would bring an entire system of idolatry—including its economic basis and perceived splendor—to **nought**. The term powerfully illustrates the concept of complete discrediting in the face of a superior truth.
TRV