The Greek word apostásion, represented by G647, refers to something separative, specifically a (writing of) divorcement. It appears only 3 times in 3 unique verses, highlighting its specific and technical use in scripture. The term designates the formal, legal document required to dissolve a marriage under Mosaic law.
In its biblical usage, G647 is exclusively found in the context of Jesus's teachings on divorce. It is first mentioned when Jesus refers to the established law, stating, "Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement" Matthew 5:31. Later, when questioned about the lawfulness of divorce, the Pharisees cite the Mosaic allowance, asking why Moses commanded them "to give a writing of divorcement" Matthew 19:7. A parallel account in Mark reinforces this, where they state that Moses permitted a man "to write a bill of divorcement" Mark 10:4.
Several related words help clarify the legal and procedural nature of G647:
- G630 apolýō: Defined as to free fully, dismiss, or specially, to divorce or put away. This verb represents the action of separation, which, according to the law cited in the Gospels, necessitated the issuing of an apostásion Matthew 5:31. The word is used alongside G647 in all its occurrences, linking the physical act of dismissal with the required legal document.
- G975 biblíon: Meaning a roll, bill, book, scroll, or writing. This term is used in conjunction with G647 in Mark 10:4, which speaks of a "bill of divorcement," and Matthew 19:7, a "writing of divorcement." This shows that an apostásion was a specific type of biblíon, a formal written document with legal standing.
The theological weight of G647 stems from its role in the debate over marriage and divorce.
- Legal Formality: The term underscores that, under the Law of Moses, divorce was not a casual act but a formal, documented procedure. The requirement of a "writing" or "bill" provided a measure of legal standing to the separation Matthew 5:31.
- A Concession in the Law: In the discussions recorded in Matthew and Mark, the apostásion is presented as something Moses "suffered" or "commanded" (Matthew 19:7, Mark 10:4). It is the central piece of the legal framework that Jesus re-examines in his teaching.
- Documenting Separation: The existence of G647 establishes a clear and final severance of the marital bond. It is the tangible evidence of the action described by the verb apolýō (to put away), making the divorce official.
In summary, G647 is a precise legal term for the "writing of divorcement" permitted under the Mosaic code. Though rare, its appearance is critical to understanding the New Testament's theological discourse on the permanence of marriage. It functions as the legal instrument that formalizes the act of being "put away" G630, highlighting the scriptural emphasis on order and due process even in the dissolution of a covenant.
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