The Greek word apóthesis, represented by G595, refers to a laying aside or putting away (off). It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. This term signifies the act of setting something aside, whether in a literal or figurative sense.
In the biblical narrative, G595 is used to draw a sharp contrast and to describe a departure. In his first epistle, Peter clarifies that baptism is not about the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but rather about a good conscience toward God 1 Peter 3:21. In his second letter, Peter uses the term figuratively, speaking of the impending putting off of his earthly body, which he calls his tabernacle 2 Peter 1:14. This was a truth the Lord Jesus Christ had showed him.
Several related words help clarify the meaning of G595:
- G4561 sárx (flesh): This word often represents the body or human nature with its frailties. In the context of baptism, the putting away is not of the flesh 1 Peter 3:21, pointing to a deeper, spiritual reality.
- G4638 skḗnōma (tabernacle): This term refers to the body as a temporary dwelling or tenement for the soul. Peter uses it to describe his physical body, which he must soon put off 2 Peter 1:14.
- G4893 syneídēsis (conscience): Meaning moral consciousness, this is contrasted with the physical act of cleansing. Salvation through baptism is not the putting away of filth, but the answer of a good conscience toward God 1 Peter 3:21.
The theological weight of G595 is significant despite its infrequent use. It underscores key doctrinal truths:
- Spiritual vs. Physical Cleansing: The use in 1 Peter 3:21 establishes a critical distinction. True salvation, represented by baptism, is not an external putting away of the filth G4509 of the flesh G4561, but an internal transformation resulting in a good conscience G4893 toward God G2316.
- The Believer's Mortal Body: Peter's reference to putting off his tabernacle G4638 frames the physical body as a temporary dwelling 2 Peter 1:14. This highlights the transient nature of earthly life and points toward a future hope beyond the physical form.
- Divine Revelation and Assurance: The act of "putting off" is not met with uncertainty. Peter's knowledge comes from what the Lord G2962 Jesus G2424 Christ G5547 has shewed G1213 him, providing a foundation of divine assurance for the believer's transition from this life 2 Peter 1:14.
In summary, G595 apóthesis is a precise term for a laying aside or putting away. Though appearing only twice, it serves to make crucial theological distinctions. It separates the outward act from the inner reality in baptism and frames the mortal body as a temporary tabernacle to be laid aside in death. The word powerfully illustrates the biblical focus on the spiritual over the physical and the eternal over the temporal.
TRV