### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apóllymi**, represented by `{{G622}}`, means **to destroy fully**. It appears 100 times across 86 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning is versatile, covering the concepts of being destroyed, perishing, or being lost, both in a literal and figurative sense.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G622}}` is used in several key contexts. It denotes ultimate spiritual destruction, where belief leads to not **perish**ing but having eternal life [[John 3:16]]. It is contrasted with physical death, as God is able to **destroy** both soul and body in hell [[Matthew 10:28]]. The term also describes the state of being lost and in need of salvation, as when the Son of man came to save that which was **lost** [[Luke 19:10]] or in the parable of the shepherd seeking his one **lost** sheep [[Luke 15:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of destruction and salvation:
* `{{G615}}` **apokteínō** (to kill outright; figuratively, to destroy): This word for killing is often used in contrast to `{{G622}}`, distinguishing between killing the body and God's ability to **destroy** both body and soul [[Matthew 10:28]].
* `{{G4982}}` **sṓzō** (to save, i.e. deliver or protect): This is a direct antonym. Scripture often contrasts the mission to **save** with the act to **destroy**, highlighting the choice between life and ruin [[Luke 9:56]].
* `{{G2147}}` **heurískō** (to find (literally or figuratively)): This word acts as the resolution to the state of being "lost" described by `{{G622}}`. For example, the son who was **lost** is later **found** [[Luke 15:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G622}}` is immense. It forms the basis of our understanding of the consequences of sin and the nature of salvation.
* **Eternal Consequence:** The term defines the ultimate fate of those who do not believe. Those who sin without the law will **perish** without the law [[Romans 2:12]], and those who are **perish**ing are those who did not receive a love of the truth [[2 Thessalonians 2:10]].
* **Divine Will:** Scripture clarifies that it is not God's will for any to **perish**. Instead, He is longsuffering, **willing** that all should come to repentance [[2 Peter 3:9]].
* **The Paradox of Discipleship:** A central theme in the Gospels is the call to **lose** one's life for Christ's sake in order to save it, creating a powerful paradox where self-preservation leads to loss, and self-sacrifice leads to salvation [[Mark 8:35]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G622}}` is a critical term that outlines the stark choice between salvation and destruction presented in scripture. It carries immense theological weight, defining the consequences of sin, the state of humanity without a savior, and the cost of discipleship. From the physical marring of a wineskin [[Mark 2:22]] to the ultimate perishing of the soul [[Matthew 10:28]], **apóllymi** illustrates the profound biblical concept of being lost and the corresponding need to be found.
TRV