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