### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apopíptō**, represented by `{{G634}}`, means **to fall off**. It is formed from the words ἀπό (from) and πίπτω (to fall). This specific term appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, making its single usage highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole occurrence of `{{G634}}` is found in the account of Saul's conversion. Following his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, Saul is left blind. In [[Acts 9:18]], as Ananias ministers to him, the scripture states, "And immediately there **fell** from his eyes as it had been scales." This physical event marks the precise moment Saul's sight was restored, immediately after which he arose and was baptized.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the immediate context of [[Acts 9:18]] help to clarify the meaning of this event:
* `{{G3013}}` **lepís** (a flake:--scale): This is the object that physically **fell** from Saul's eyes, giving a tangible reality to his healing [[Acts 9:18]].
* `{{G308}}` **anablépō** (to look up; by implication, to recover sight): This is the direct result of the scales falling. Saul's ability to **recover sight** is a key theme, often associated with the miraculous works of Jesus [[Matthew 20:34]].
* `{{G907}}` **baptízō** (to immerse, submerge; ...of the ordinance of Christian baptism): This action immediately follows the healing. After the scales **fall** and his sight is restored, Saul **was baptized**, signifying his complete entry into a new life in Christ [[Acts 9:18]].
* `{{G3788}}` **ophthalmós** (the eye): This is the part of the body from which the scales **fell**. The healing of the **eyes** is often used figuratively for spiritual enlightenment [[Ephesians 1:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G634}}` is derived entirely from its single, powerful context in [[Acts 9:18]].
* **Physical Sign of Spiritual Healing:** The "falling off" of the scales is a visible, physical manifestation of an inward, spiritual transformation. It represents the removal of the blindness that prevented Saul from seeing the truth. This act allows him to literally and spiritually **recover sight** `{{G308}}`.
* **Divine Intervention:** The event is described as happening **immediately** `{{G2112}}`. This suddenness indicates that the healing was not a gradual, natural process but a direct and miraculous act of God.
* **Prerequisite for a New Beginning:** The removal of the scales is a critical turning point. Only after they **fall** is Saul able to see, **arise** `{{G450}}`, and be **baptized** `{{G907}}`. This illustrates the theological principle that the old state of spiritual blindness must be removed before one can enter into a new life of faith and obedience.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G634}}` is one of the rarest words in the New Testament, its single use is unforgettable. It powerfully captures the moment of Saul's dramatic healing and conversion. The word signifies more than a simple physical action; it represents the decisive removal of spiritual blindness, making way for one of the most significant transformations in biblical history. The "falling off" of the scales marks the end of Saul the persecutor and the beginning of Paul the apostle.
TRV