### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apostasía**, represented by `{{G646}}`, is a term for **defection from truth**. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Its core meaning describes a state of apostasy, which is translated as a "falling away" or an act to "forsake" established beliefs or practices.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G646}}` is used in two key contexts. It has a significant eschatological meaning, where a "falling away" is described as an event that must occur before the "man of sin" can be revealed [[2 Thessalonians 2:3]]. The term is also used in a more immediate context, where Paul is accused of teaching Jews among the Gentiles to **forsake** Moses by abandoning core customs like circumcision [[Acts 21:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature of this defection:
* `{{G1818}}` **exapatáō** (to seduce wholly): This word for deception is used to warn believers not to be beguiled, as the "falling away" is something people can be led into through deceit [[2 Thessalonians 2:3]].
* `{{G1321}}` **didáskō** (to teach): Apostasy is presented as something that can be taught. Paul was accused of teaching all the Jews among the Gentiles to forsake Moses [[Acts 21:21]].
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía** (a sin): The great "falling away" is directly linked to the revelation of the "man of sin," connecting the act of apostasy with a state of profound opposition to God [[2 Thessalonians 2:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G646}}` is significant and points to a grave spiritual condition.
* **An Eschatological Prerequisite:** The "falling away" is explicitly identified as a sign that must precede major end-time events, specifically the appearance of the "son of perdition" [[2 Thessalonians 2:3]].
* **Abandonment of Established Truth:** The accusation against Paul shows that apostasy was understood as encouraging others to abandon foundational religious laws and customs delivered by figures like Moses [[Acts 21:21]].
* **Connection to Deception and Perdition:** The concept is closely tied to being deceived and is linked with the "man of sin" and the "son of perdition," highlighting its destructive nature [[2 Thessalonians 2:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G646}}` is a potent term that signifies a deliberate defection from truth. It is not a passive drifting but an active "falling away" or an instruction to "forsake" established foundations. Its use in scripture points to both a specific, prophetic event preceding the end and a general act of abandoning divine teaching, always with severe spiritual consequences.
TRV