### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apoloúō**, represented by `{{G628}}`, means **to wash fully**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Based on its components ἀπό (from) and λούω (to wash), it carries the figurative meaning of having sins remitted, translated as "wash" or "wash away."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G628}}` describes a definitive spiritual cleansing. In [[Acts 22:16]], the term is used in a direct command linked to baptism and salvation: "arise, and be baptized, and **wash away** thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord." This theme is reinforced in [[1 Corinthians 6:11]], where it is presented as a completed action for believers, listed alongside other redemptive works: "but ye are **washed**, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are contextually linked to `{{G628}}`, clarifying its theological function:
* `{{G907}}` **baptízō**: This word means "to immerse, submerge" and refers to the ordinance of Christian baptism. It is directly paired with the washing away of sins in the command to "be baptized, and wash away thy sins" [[Acts 22:16]].
* `{{G37}}` **hagiázō**: Defined as "to make holy, i.e. (ceremonially) purify or consecrate," this term for sanctification appears immediately after washing in [[1 Corinthians 6:11]], showing that a believer is not only washed but also set apart.
* `{{G1344}}` **dikaióō**: Meaning "to render (i.e. show or regard as) just or innocent," this word for justification is also part of the sequence in [[1 Corinthians 6:11]], establishing that the believer is washed, sanctified, and declared righteous.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G628}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of salvation.
* **Definitive Forgiveness:** The word signifies a complete and total removal of sin, not a partial or repeated cleansing. The action in [[Acts 22:16]] is accomplished by "calling on the name of the Lord."
* **A Foundational Act of Salvation:** Its placement in [[1 Corinthians 6:11]]—"ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified"—shows that this spiritual washing is an integral and inseparable part of the salvation experience, accomplished by the "Spirit of our God."
* **Link to Baptism:** The command in [[Acts 22:16]] connects the internal, spiritual act of having sins washed away (apoloúō) with the external ordinance of baptism (baptízō).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G628}}` is a potent and specific term for the spiritual cleansing from sin that occurs at salvation. Though used only twice, its context links it inextricably with baptism, sanctification, and justification. It describes a one-time, complete washing away of sin, secured through the name of the Lord Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit.
TRV