### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ἀποδοκιμάζω (apodokimázō `{{G593}}`) is a compound word derived from ἀπό (apo `{{G575}}`), meaning "away from" or "off," and δοκιμάζω (dokimázō `{{G1381}}`), meaning "to test, examine, prove, or approve." Therefore, ἀποδοκιμάζω literally signifies "to test and find wanting," or "to reject after examination." It implies a deliberate process of evaluation that culminates in disapproval or repudiation. Unlike δοκιμάζω, which can lead to approval, ἀποδοκιμάζω always results in a negative outcome – the tested object or person is deemed unfit, unworthy, or unacceptable and is consequently cast aside or disallowed. The semantic range thus encompasses "to disapprove," "to reject," and "to repudiate."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἀποδοκιμάζω appears predominantly in the Synoptic Gospels and the First Epistle of Peter, often in contexts of significant theological import.
* **Messianic Prophecy and Fulfillment:** The most prominent use of ἀποδοκιμάζω is in the context of the "stone which the builders rejected." This phrase, a direct quotation from [[Psalm 118:22]], is applied to Jesus Christ in [[Matthew 21:42]], [[Mark 12:10]], and [[Luke 20:17]]. In the parable of the wicked tenants, Jesus identifies Himself as the "stone" whom the "builders" (representing the religious leaders of Israel) would reject. This rejection is not a casual dismissal but a considered act by those in authority who should have recognized His divine appointment. Yet, paradoxically, this rejected stone becomes the "head of the corner," signifying His ultimate exaltation and indispensable role in God's redemptive plan.
* **Jesus' Self-Prediction of Suffering:** In [[Luke 9:22]], Jesus explicitly predicts His own suffering and rejection: "The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, chief priests and teachers of the law, and he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life." Here, ἀποδοκιμάζω underscores the deliberate decision of the Jewish leadership to repudiate Jesus, leading to His crucifixion. This highlights the preordained nature of Christ's passion and His role as the suffering servant.
* **Esau's Rejection:** In [[Hebrews 12:17]], the word is used in reference to Esau: "For you know that afterward, when he wanted to inherit this blessing, he was rejected (ἀποδοκιμασθῆναι), though he sought it with tears, because he found no place for repentance." Here, the passive voice emphasizes that Esau *was* the one rejected, having failed the divine test or having been found unworthy of the blessing due to his prior contempt for his birthright.
* **Apostolic Application:** Peter, in his first epistle, echoes the Synoptic use of ἀποδοκιμάζω when he refers to Christ as the "living Stone, rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him" ([[1 Peter 2:4]]). He reiterates this in [[1 Peter 2:7]], stating, "Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, 'The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.'" Peter emphasizes the contrast between human rejection and divine election, asserting Christ's supreme value despite His repudiation by the world.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of ἀποδοκιμάζω is illuminated by its relationship to other Greek terms:
* **δοκιμάζω (dokimázō `{{G1381}}`):** As its root, δοκιμάζω means "to test, examine, prove, or approve." While δοκιμάζω can lead to approval (e.g., "tested and approved"), ἀποδοκιμάζω specifically denotes the negative outcome of such a test: "tested and disapproved." It is the antonym in terms of result.
* **ἀρνέομαι (arneomai `{{G720}}`):** "To deny, refuse." While related in outcome, ἀρνέομαι emphasizes a verbal or volitional refusal, whereas ἀποδοκιμάζω implies a judgment made after an evaluation.
* **ἀθετέω (atheteō `{{G114}}`):** "To reject, nullify, set aside." This term often applies to laws, covenants, or authority, signifying a nullification. ἀποδοκιμάζω is more about the rejection of a person or object based on a perceived lack of worth.
* **Concepts:** Rejection, disapproval, repudiation, testing, evaluation, cornerstone, suffering, divine sovereignty, human opposition.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἀποδοκιμάζω is profound, particularly in its application to Jesus Christ:
* **Messianic Identity and Fulfillment:** The repeated use of this word in connection with the "rejected stone" underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy concerning the Messiah. Jesus' rejection by the very people and leaders He came to save was not an unforeseen tragedy but a divinely orchestrated event integral to God's redemptive plan.
* **Paradox of Divine Sovereignty:** The concept highlights a profound theological paradox: what humanity rejects and deems worthless, God chooses and exalts. The rejection of Jesus by the "builders" was the very means by which God established Him as the "cornerstone" of His new spiritual temple. This demonstrates God's sovereignty, working His purposes even through human opposition and sin.
* **Suffering and Glory:** The term links Jesus' suffering (His rejection and subsequent crucifixion) directly to His ultimate glory (His resurrection and exaltation as the cornerstone). It reveals that the path to divine vindication often involves human repudiation.
* **Foundation of the Church:** For believers, the "rejected stone" becoming the "cornerstone" signifies that the church is built upon Christ, the One whom the world disdained. Those who accept Him become part of God's spiritual house, built on this foundation ([[1 Peter 2:5-7]]).
* **Warning to Unbelievers:** Conversely, for those who continue to reject Christ, the "rejected stone" becomes a "stone of stumbling and a rock of offense" ([[1 Peter 2:8]]), leading to judgment.
### Summary
ἀποδοκιμάζω (apodokimázō `{{G593}}`) signifies a decisive rejection or repudiation following a process of evaluation or testing. It is a strong term indicating that something or someone has been examined and found to be unacceptable or unworthy. Its most critical biblical application is to Jesus Christ, who was "rejected" by the religious leaders of His time. This rejection, far from thwarting God's plan, was a fulfillment of prophecy ([[Psalm 118:22]]) and instrumental in His exaltation as the divine "cornerstone" and foundation of the church. The word thus encapsulates the profound theological paradox of God's sovereignty: what humanity disallows, God uses for His ultimate redemptive purposes, transforming rejection into the very basis of salvation and glory.
TRV