### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apothnḗskō**, represented by `{{G599}}`, means **to die off**. It appears 122 times in 99 verses, used to describe death in both a literal and a figurative sense. Its applications range from physical death to being slain, to the spiritual state of being dead to sin or the law.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G599}}` is used to describe physical mortality, as it is appointed for men once to **die** [[Hebrews 9:27]], a fate shared by both the beggar and the rich man [[Luke 16:22]]. The term is central to the gospel, signifying Christ's substitutionary death **for** our sins [[1 Corinthians 15:3]] and **for** us while we were yet sinners [[Romans 5:8]]. Figuratively, it describes a believer's new identity, being **dead** to the law [[Galatians 2:19]] and hidden with Christ in God [[Colossians 3:3]]. It also illustrates a principle of fruitfulness, where a seed must first **die** in the ground to bring forth much fruit [[John 12:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of death:
* `{{G2288}}` **thánatos** (death): This noun describes the state or concept of death. In [[Revelation 9:6]], men will seek **death** but will not find it.
* `{{G2289}}` **thanatóō** (to kill, mortify): This verb denotes the act of putting to death. It is used figuratively in [[Romans 8:13]], which instructs believers to **mortify** the deeds of the body through the Spirit.
* `{{G3498}}` **nekrós** (dead): This adjective describes one who has died. It is used in the blessing for the **dead** who die in the Lord [[Revelation 14:13]].
* `{{G2198}}` **záō** (to live): As the direct opposite of `{{G599}}`, this word is often used in contrast to highlight the new life found in Christ. For example, believers who die to the flesh shall **live** [[Romans 8:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G599}}` is immense, defining core Christian doctrines.
* **Vicarious Atonement:** The most significant use of `{{G599}}` is to describe the substitutionary death of Christ. Scripture states that Christ **died** for the ungodly [[Romans 5:6]], for our sins [[1 Corinthians 15:3]], and for all people [[2 Corinthians 5:14]].
* **Death to Sin and the Law:** Believers are described as having **died** to sin [[Romans 6:2]] and to the law [[Galatians 2:19]]. This figurative death signifies a separation from the old life and a new freedom in Christ, serving in newness of spirit [[Romans 7:6]].
* **The Foundation of Resurrection:** The act of dying is presented as a precursor to resurrection. Christ **died** and rose again [[1 Thessalonians 4:14]], establishing a pattern for believers who, though they may **die**, shall live [[John 11:25]]. This connects the believer's death with Christ to the promise of new life with him [[Romans 6:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G599}}` extends far beyond the physical act of dying. It is a foundational term that expresses both the universal human condition of mortality [[Hebrews 9:27]] and the core tenets of the Christian faith. From the literal death of individuals to the figurative death of the believer to sin, and culminating in the pivotal, atoning death of Christ for humanity [[Romans 5:8]], **apothnḗskō** is essential for understanding the biblical narrative of redemption and the promise of new life.
TRV