from ἀπό and σπάω; to drag forth, i.e. (literally) unsheathe (a sword), or relatively (with a degree of force implied) retire (personally or factiously):--(with-)draw (away), after we were gotten from.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apospáō**, represented by `{{G645}}`, is derived from ἀπό and σπάω. It means to drag forth, unsheathe a sword, or to retire or withdraw, often with an implied degree of force. This specific term appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting its use in distinct and impactful moments.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The uses of `{{G645}}` illustrate its different shades of meaning. In a literal sense, it describes a disciple who **drew** his sword in the Garden of Gethsemane [[Matthew 26:51]]. It is also used to describe a personal withdrawal, as when Jesus **was withdrawn** from His disciples a short distance to pray [[Luke 22:41]]. The term can carry a negative, factious connotation, such as the warning that false teachers will arise to **draw away** disciples after themselves [[Acts 20:30]]. Finally, it conveys a sense of departure or separation, used when Paul and his companions **were gotten from** the Ephesian elders [[Acts 21:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{G645}}` is used:
* `{{G3162}}` **máchaira** (sword): This word for a knife or sword appears alongside `{{G645}}` in the account of the disciple's violent act [[Matthew 26:51]]. Figuratively, it is called "the **sword** of the Spirit" [[Ephesians 6:17]].
* `{{G3101}}` **mathētḗs** (disciple): Defined as a learner or pupil, this term is central to the warning in Acts, where false teachers attempt to draw away a following of **disciples** [[Acts 20:30]].
* `{{G4336}}` **proseúchomai** (to pray): This word, meaning to pray to God or supplicate, is the reason for Jesus's withdrawal `{{G645}}` in the garden, as He "kneeled down, and **prayed**" [[Luke 22:41]].
* `{{G321}}` **anágō** (had launched): This term for launching forth or sailing is used immediately after Paul and his companions were "gotten from" the elders, marking the start of their journey after a difficult farewell [[Acts 21:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G645}}` is seen in the contrast between its applications. The word highlights a critical moment of separation, which can be either righteous or destructive.
* **Withdrawal for Divine Communion:** Jesus provides a model of spiritual discipline by purposefully withdrawing `{{G645}}` from his closest followers in order to **pray** to the Father at a moment of immense trial [[Luke 22:41]].
* **Impulsive Human Action:** The word is used for the rash, physical act of one who **drew** his sword to defend Jesus, an action prompted by human instinct rather than divine will [[Matthew 26:51]].
* **Intentional Division:** The term serves as a stark warning about the danger of false doctrine, where divisive individuals actively seek to **draw away** disciples `{{G3101}}`, creating factions and pulling people away from the truth [[Acts 20:30]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G645}}` is a potent verb that signifies a forceful separation or pulling away. Though used sparingly in scripture, it captures a range of significant actions. It can describe the literal unsheathing of a **sword**, the intentional spiritual act of withdrawing for prayer, and the divisive work of those who lead believers astray. In each case, **apospáō** denotes a decisive, and often difficult, act of separation.
TRV