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