from ἀπό and ἔχω; (actively) to have out, i.e. receive in full; (intransitively) to keep (oneself) away, i.e. be distant (literally or figuratively):--be, have, receive.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apéchō**, represented by `{{G568}}`, is a term with a distinct dual meaning. Derived from ἀπό and ἔχω, its definition includes both actively to **receive in full** and intransitively to **be distant** or keep away. It appears **11 times** across **11 unique verses**, where it is used to convey concepts of final payment, physical separation, and spiritual alienation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G568}}` is used to describe two primary ideas: receipt and distance. It is frequently used to indicate receiving a reward in its entirety. In Matthew, hypocrites who perform acts of charity, prayer, or fasting for public recognition **have** `{{G568}}` their reward `{{G3408}}` in full, implying no further reward from God is due ([[Matthew 6:2]], [[Matthew 6:5]], [[Matthew 6:16]]). Similarly, the rich are warned that they **have received** `{{G568}}` their consolation `{{G3874}}` [[Luke 6:24]]. The word also denotes distance, both spiritual and literal. Jesus quotes Isaiah to describe those whose lips honor God but whose hearts **are far** `{{G568}}` from Him ([[Matthew 15:8]], [[Mark 7:6]]). In a literal sense, it describes the prodigal son who was still "a great way **off**" `{{G568}}` when his father saw him [[Luke 15:20]] and the village of Emmaus being a certain distance from Jerusalem [[Luke 24:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meanings of `{{G568}}`:
* `{{G3408}}` **misthós** (reward): This word for "pay for service" or **reward** is directly linked to `{{G568}}` in passages about hypocrites, who are said to **have** their reward in full on earth [[Matthew 6:5]].
* `{{G1209}}` **déchomai** (receive): This is a general term for receiving. Its use in [[Philippians 4:18]] alongside `{{G568}}` creates a contrast. Paul first states "I **have** `{{G568}}` all," indicating completeness, after mentioning he had **received** `{{G1209}}` the gifts from Epaphroditus.
* `{{G4206}}` **pórrhō** (far): This adverb is used with `{{G568}}` to emphasize the distance of the heart from God in those who perform empty rituals [[Matthew 15:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G568}}` is significant, highlighting key principles of faith and worship.
* **The Finality of Earthly Reward:** The use of `{{G568}}` in Matthew's Gospel serves as a sober warning. Those who seek praise from men for their religious acts receive their payment in full from their human audience, effectively closing their account with God for that deed [[Matthew 6:2]].
* **Spiritual Distance vs. Outward Piety:** The term is used to diagnose the core problem of hypocrisy. A person can draw nigh to God with their mouth, but their heart can **be far** `{{G568}}` from Him, rendering their worship void [[Mark 7:6]].
* **Fullness in Receipt and Relationship:** In a positive sense, `{{G568}}` communicates completeness. Paul uses it to express his total contentment with the gift from the Philippians, stating "I **have** all" [[Philippians 4:18]]. In the letter to Philemon, it is used to encourage him to **receive** Onesimus back forever, signifying a complete and permanent restoration of their relationship [[Philemon 1:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G568}}` **apéchō** is a precise term that communicates more than simple possession or distance. It carries a strong sense of finality and completeness. Whether describing the full and final reward of a hypocrite, the vast distance of a heart from God, or the complete satisfaction found in fellowship, the word adds a crucial layer of meaning. It underscores the biblical contrast between temporary, earthly validation and eternal, divine reward, and between outward religious acts and the true posture of the heart.
TRV