The Greek word apelpízō, represented by G560, is defined as to hope out, i.e. fully expect or to hope for again. It is formed from the words ἀπό and ἐλπίζω. Although it appears only 2 times across 1 unique verse in the Bible, its specific context provides a pointed illustration of selfless generosity.
The single verse where G560 appears is Luke 6:35. Here, the word is used twice in the command to "lend, hoping for nothing again." This instruction is given as a practical application of a higher command to love your enemies and do good. The act of lending without the full expectation of repayment is contrasted with the behavior of sinners who lend to sinners only "to receive as much again" Luke 6:34. Acting without this hope for return is linked to receiving a great reward from "the Highest."
Several related words from its context in Luke 6:35 help clarify its meaning:
- G1155 daneízō (to loan on interest; reflexively, to borrow:--borrow, lend): This word for lend is the direct action that G560 qualifies. The command is not just to lend, but to do so without the expectation of recovery Luke 6:35.
- G2190 echthrós (an adversary... enemy, foe): The command to lend without hoping for return is radical because it is part of the instruction to love your enemies Luke 6:35, the very people from whom one might least expect repayment.
- G3408 misthós (pay for service... reward, wages): This word provides the motivation for selfless lending. While one should not hope for human repayment, there is a promise of a great reward from God Luke 6:35.
The theological weight of G560 is concentrated in its challenge to worldly economics and its call to imitate God.
- Imitating Divine Kindness: The command is justified by pointing to God's own character, stating that He "is kind G5543 unto the unthankful G884 and to the evil G4190" Luke 6:35. Generosity without expectation of return is thus a way of acting as "the children of the Highest."
- Reorienting Hope and Reward: The instruction to lend without "hoping for nothing again" redirects the believer's hope away from a transactional, earthly return. It replaces it with the promise of a "great" reward G3408 from God.
- Radical Generosity: The concept stands as a powerful expression of love for one's enemies G2190. It moves beyond mere tolerance to active, material support without conditions, embodying a core principle of Christian ethics.
In summary, while its usage is rare, G560 carries a significant ethical message. It precisely defines the worldly hope for return that a believer is called to abandon in certain acts of generosity. Found within the command to love one's enemies, apelpízō is used to forbid a transactional mindset, instead promoting a radical generosity that reflects the selfless character of God and trusts in a divine reward rather than a human one.
TRV