### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun ἀποβολή (apobolḗ, `{{G580}}`) is derived from the verb ἀποβάλλω (apoballō, `{{G600}}`), which means "to throw away," "cast off," or "reject." Consequently, ἀποβολή fundamentally signifies an act of "casting away," "rejection," or "putting aside." Its semantic range extends to encompass the resulting state or consequence of such an action, namely "loss." This "loss" can be figurative, referring to a relational or spiritual separation, or literal, denoting a physical perishing. The word implies a decisive act of removal or separation, leading to a state of forfeiture or absence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
ἀποβολή occurs twice in the New Testament, each instance illuminating a distinct facet of its meaning:
* **[[Romans 11:15]]**: "For if their rejection (ἀποβολὴ) is the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead?"
* Here, ἀποβολὴ refers to Israel's temporary "rejection" or "casting away" by God. This is not an ultimate, irrevocable abandonment, but a strategic and provisional separation due to their unbelief, which paradoxically served to bring the gospel to the Gentiles. The passage contrasts this "rejection" with their future "acceptance" (πρόσληψις, `{{G4356}}`), highlighting God's enduring faithfulness and redemptive purpose even in the face of human disobedience. The "loss" here is primarily spiritual and relational, concerning their privileged covenant status, yet it is presented as a means to a greater, global spiritual gain.
* **[[Acts 27:22]]**: "But now I urge you to take courage, for there will be no loss (ἀποβολὴ) of life among you, but only of the ship."
* In this context of Paul's shipwreck, ἀποβολὴ denotes a literal, physical "loss" of life. Paul, speaking under divine inspiration, assures the terrified sailors and passengers that despite the imminent destruction of the ship, no one will perish. The phrase "no loss of life" (οὐδεμία ἀποβολὴ ψυχῆς) emphasizes divine preservation and protection amidst extreme peril, contrasting the destruction of material possessions (the ship) with the safeguarding of human lives.
These two occurrences demonstrate the word's versatility, applying to both figurative spiritual dynamics and concrete physical outcomes.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation is to the verb ἀποβάλλω (apoballō, `{{G600}}`), from which ἀποβολή is derived, signifying the action of "casting away."
Concepts closely related to ἀποβολή include:
* **Antonyms/Contrasts:** πρόσληψις (proslēpsis, `{{G4356}}`), "acceptance" or "receiving," as seen in the clear antithesis in [[Romans 11:15]]. The concept of σωτηρία (sōtēria, `{{G4991}}`), "salvation" or "preservation," stands in opposition to "loss" in [[Acts 27:22]].
* **Synonyms/Related terms:** While not direct synonyms, other words express similar ideas of rejection or destruction, though often with different nuances. ἀπώλεια (apōleia, `{{G684}}`), "destruction" or "ruin," often implies a more ultimate and severe perishing. ἀποδοκιμάζω (apodokimazō, `{{G593}}`), "to reject after testing," focuses on the act of disapproval. ῥίπτω (rhiptō, `{{G4496}}`), "to throw" or "cast," describes the physical action that can lead to ἀποβολή.
### Theological Significance
The theological import of ἀποβολή is profound, particularly in its two distinct biblical contexts:
* **Divine Sovereignty and Redemptive Economy:** In [[Romans 11:15]], Israel's "rejection" is not a sign of God's failure or abandonment, but a testament to His sovereign plan. It demonstrates how God can use even human unbelief and a temporary "loss" (from Israel's perspective) to achieve a greater, global redemptive purpose—the reconciliation of the world through the gospel. This highlights God's faithfulness and His ability to orchestrate history for His ultimate glory, promising a future restoration for Israel.
* **Divine Preservation and Assurance:** In [[Acts 27:22]], the "no loss of life" signifies God's providential care and His power to preserve His servants and those associated with them. It underscores the certainty of God's word and the security found in His divine protection, even in the face of overwhelming natural forces. This instance provides a powerful illustration of God's active involvement in the physical world, safeguarding life according to His purposes.
* **The Nature of Loss in God's Economy:** The word ἀποβολή reveals that "loss" is not always absolute or final from God's perspective. It can be a temporary state, a strategic step in a larger plan, or a potential outcome averted by divine intervention. For believers, even in situations of "loss," there is an underlying assurance of God's ultimate control and His commitment to His promises.
### Summary
ἀποβολή (`{{G580}}`) denotes "rejection" or "loss," stemming from the verb "to cast away." Its two New Testament occurrences provide rich insight into its theological significance. In [[Romans 11:15]], it describes Israel's temporary "rejection," a pivotal event in God's redemptive plan that facilitated the world's reconciliation, showcasing divine sovereignty and the paradoxical nature of God's workings. In [[Acts 27:22]], it refers to the averted "loss of life" during a shipwreck, powerfully illustrating God's providential care and preservation. Thus, ἀποβολή encompasses both spiritual and physical dimensions of loss, consistently pointing to God's overarching purposes, His unwavering faithfulness, and His power to preserve, even turning apparent loss into ultimate gain or averting it altogether.
TRV