The Greek word apobállō, represented by G577, means to throw off or lose. Its definition is "to throw off; figuratively, to lose:--cast away." Though it appears only 3 times in 2 unique verses, its usage highlights a powerful contrast between a physical, decisive action and a figurative, spiritual warning.
In its biblical usage, G577 illustrates two distinct contexts. It is used literally in the account of the blind man approaching Jesus, where he is "casting away" his garment G2440 in his haste to rise and come to him Mark 10:50. In contrast, it is used figuratively in a command to believers: "Cast not away therefore your confidence G3954, which hath great recompence of reward" Hebrews 10:35. This application shifts the meaning from a physical object to a spiritual virtue that must be held onto.
Several related words provide context for the actions associated with G577:
- G2440 himátion (a dress (inner or outer):--apparel, cloke, clothes, garment, raiment, robe, vesture): This is the physical object that is literally cast away in Mark 10:50, representing something that could hinder one's approach to Jesus.
- G3954 parrhēsía (all out-spokenness, i.e. frankness, bluntness, publicity; by implication, assurance:--bold (X -ly, -ness, -ness of speech), confidence, X freely, X openly, X plainly(-ness)): This is the invaluable spiritual quality that believers are commanded not to cast away in Hebrews 10:35.
- G3361 mḗ (a primary particle of qualified negation... not, lest): This word of negation is crucial in Hebrews 10:35, turning the action of "casting away" into a prohibition and a solemn warning.
The theological weight of G577 is found in its sharp contrast between what to discard and what to retain.
- Urgency in Following Christ: The literal act of casting away a garment G2440 signifies the removal of any encumbrance or earthly identity in one's urgent response to Jesus's call Mark 10:50.
- Perseverance in Faith: The warning not to cast away confidence G3954 underscores that assurance in Christ is a precious possession that must be guarded, as it is tied to a future "great recompence of reward" Hebrews 10:35.
- The Nature of Spiritual Choice: The use of G577 in these two verses presents a fundamental choice for the believer: to decisively throw off things that hinder access to Christ, while steadfastly refusing to lose the confidence that comes from faith in Him.
In summary, G577 is a concise but potent word. While its appearances are few, they powerfully illustrate a core principle of the Christian walk. It shows the difference between what is disposable in the pursuit of Christ—like a physical garment—and what is indispensable for obtaining the reward of faith—our confidence in Him.
TRV