### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aponíptō**, represented by `{{G633}}`, means **to wash off**, used specifically to describe the symbolic washing of one's own hands. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The word is formed from **apó** `{{G575}}`, meaning "off" or "away from," and νίπτω, to wash, highlighting the idea of separating oneself from something.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G633}}` is found in a pivotal moment during the trial of Jesus. In [[Matthew 27:24]], Pilate `{{G4091}}` **saw** `{{G1492}}` that he could accomplish **nothing** `{{G3762}}` and that a **tumult** `{{G2351}}` was starting. In response, he **took** `{{G2983}}` **water** `{{G5204}}` and **washed** `{{G633}}` his **hands** `{{G5495}}` **before** `{{G561}}` the **multitude** `{{G3793}}`, publicly declaring his innocence.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of this symbolic act:
* `{{G121}}` **áthōos** (innocent): This word, meaning "not guilty," is what Pilate proclaims himself to be concerning the **blood** `{{G129}}` of Jesus [[Matthew 27:24]]. It is also used by Judas when he tries to return the money for betraying **innocent** blood [[Matthew 27:4]].
* `{{G129}}` **haîma** (blood): Pilate's act is an attempt to be free from the guilt of shedding Jesus's **blood**. The term is used throughout scripture to refer not just to literal blood but also to bloodshed and the atoning **blood** of Christ [[Ephesians 1:7]].
* `{{G5495}}` **cheír** (hand): The physical part being washed, the **hand** is often used figuratively to represent a "means or instrument" of action. Pilate washes his hands to signify that they are not the instrument of this unjust act [[Matthew 27:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G633}}` is tied to its unique and dramatic context.
* **A Declaration of Self-Absolution:** The act of washing `{{G633}}` is Pilate's external attempt to declare himself **innocent** `{{G121}}` of the **blood** `{{G129}}` of a **just person** `{{G1342}}`. It is a public performance aimed at deflecting moral and legal responsibility.
* **The Abdication of Authority:** Pilate's gesture is immediately followed by his words to the **multitude** `{{G3793}}`, "**see** `{{G3700}}` **ye** `{{G5210}}` to it" [[Matthew 27:24]]. The washing is therefore not just about innocence, but about formally handing over the matter to others, despite having the authority to intervene.
* **Symbolic versus Spiritual Cleansing:** Pilate's use of **water** `{{G5204}}` to **wash** `{{G633}}` his **hands** `{{G5495}}` stands in stark contrast to the spiritual cleansing spoken of elsewhere, such as being washed from sin by the **blood** `{{G129}}` of Christ [[Revelation 1:5]] or being cleansed by the **blood** of Jesus [[1 John 1:7]].
### Summary
In summary, **aponíptō** `{{G633}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is entirely defined by its singular use in scripture. It captures the symbolic act of washing one's hands to disavow responsibility for an impending action. The use of this word in [[Matthew 27:24]] permanently associates it with Pilate's infamous attempt to declare himself **innocent** `{{G121}}` while allowing the condemnation of a **just person** `{{G1342}}`.
TRV