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