### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apoleíchō**, represented by `{{G621}}`, is defined as **to lick clean**. It is a compound word derived from `{{G575}}`, meaning "off," and a base word meaning "to lick." This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the entirety of the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G621}}` occurs in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus. The narrative describes the suffering of Lazarus, a beggar who was "desiring `{{G1937}}` to be fed `{{G5526}}` with the crumbs `{{G5589}}` which fell `{{G4098}}` from the rich man's `{{G4145}}` table `{{G5132}}`." In this state of utter destitution, the scripture states, "moreover the dogs `{{G2965}}` came `{{G2064}}` and **licked** `{{G621}}` his `{{G846}}` sores `{{G1668}}`" [[Luke 16:21]]. The action powerfully illustrates the extremity of Lazarus's neglect and physical affliction.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the context of [[Luke 16:21]] help to illuminate the meaning of **apoleíchō**:
* `{{G2965}}` **kýōn** (dog): The dogs are the agents performing the action of licking. This term is used literally here to describe the animals attending to Lazarus's sores [[Luke 16:21]], but elsewhere it is used figuratively to warn believers to "beware of **dogs**" [[Philippians 3:2]].
* `{{G1668}}` **hélkos** (sore): This is the object that is being licked. It refers to an ulcer, highlighting Lazarus's painful condition. The word also appears in Revelation to describe the "grievous **sore**" that falls upon those who worship the beast [[Revelation 16:2]].
* `{{G4145}}` **ploúsios** (rich): This word describes the man whose wealth starkly contrasts with Lazarus's poverty. This contrast is the setting in which the dogs come to lick the beggar's sores [[Luke 16:21]]. While it denotes earthly wealth here, God is described as being **rich** in mercy [[Ephesians 2:4]].
* `{{G5589}}` **psichíon** (crumb): This word, meaning a little bit or morsel, emphasizes Lazarus's desperate hunger. His desire for even the **crumbs** from the table highlights the squalor in which he was found by the dogs [[Luke 16:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G621}}` is tied entirely to its singular, potent context.
* **A Portrait of Extreme Suffering:** The act of dogs licking a man's open **sores** `{{G1668}}` is a graphic depiction of total helplessness and degradation. It places Lazarus in a position of being tended to only by street animals, which were often considered unclean [[Matthew 7:6]].
* **A Symbol of Human Neglect:** While the **rich** man `{{G4145}}` lives in luxury, Lazarus is ignored by his fellow man. The use of **apoleíchō** shows that the only physical interaction he receives is from dogs, starkly illustrating a failure of human compassion and mercy.
* **The Great Reversal:** This scene of profound earthly suffering, symbolized by the dogs licking his sores, sets the stage for the parable's main point. Lazarus's lowly state is dramatically reversed after death, providing a powerful lesson on eternal justice and the danger of ignoring the poor [[Luke 16:21]].
### Summary
In summary, **apoleíchō** `{{G621}}` is a rare verb whose single biblical appearance delivers a powerful and lasting image. While its literal definition is simply **to lick clean**, its use in [[Luke 16:21]] serves as a profound symbol of Lazarus's suffering, the rich man's indifference, and the great reversal of fortunes in the afterlife. The word demonstrates how a single, precise action can convey a deep theological message about mercy, judgment, and the values of God's kingdom.
TRV