### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apostygéō**, represented by `{{G655}}`, means **to detest utterly** or **abhor**. It is formed from ἀπό and the base of στυγνητός. This powerful term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single usage highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical context, `{{G655}}` provides a stark command regarding Christian conduct. The instruction is found in [[Romans 12:9]], which states, "Let love `{{G26}}` be without dissimulation `{{G505}}`. **Abhor** `{{G655}}` that which is evil `{{G4190}}`; cleave `{{G2853}}` to that which is good `{{G18}}`." The act of utterly detesting evil is presented as a direct and necessary expression of a sincere and undisguised love.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help illuminate the meaning of `{{G655}}`:
* `{{G4190}}` **ponērós** (hurtful, i.e. evil): This is the object of the command to **abhor**. It is presented as the direct opposite of good [[Luke 6:45]] and is something from which believers ask to be delivered [[Matthew 6:13]].
* `{{G2853}}` **kolláō** (to glue, i.e. to stick): This is the active, positive counterpart to abhorring evil. Believers are commanded to **cleave**, or be "glued," to what is good. The term is also used to describe being joined to the Lord [[1 Corinthians 6:17]].
* `{{G18}}` **agathós** (good): This is what a believer must cleave to. It is used to describe the works God has prepared for believers to walk in [[Ephesians 2:10]] and the gifts that come from God the Father [[James 1:17]].
* `{{G26}}` **agápē** (love, i.e. affection or benevolence): This is the foundational virtue from which the command to abhor evil stems. It is described as a fruit of the Spirit [[Galatians 5:22]] and the motivation for God's actions toward humanity [[Romans 5:8]].
* `{{G505}}` **anypókritos** (undissembled, i.e. sincere): This describes the type of love that fuels the abhorrence of evil. The same word is used to describe an **unfeigned** faith [[1 Timothy 1:5]] and is a mark of divine wisdom [[James 3:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G655}}` is demonstrated in its immediate context.
* **An Active Moral Stance:** The use of `{{G655}}` is part of a dual command. It is not enough to passively avoid evil; one must actively and utterly detest it while simultaneously clinging firmly to what is good [[Romans 12:9]].
* **The Fruit of Sincere Love:** The command to **abhor** evil directly follows the exhortation for love `{{G26}}` to be **without dissimulation** `{{G505}}`. This connection establishes that genuine love cannot be neutral or tolerant toward that which is evil `{{G4190}}`; it must reject it.
* **Evidence of a Renewed Mind:** Situated in Romans 12, this command is an outworking of a mind being transformed to understand and align with the will of God, which is described as **good** `{{G18}}` and acceptable and perfect [[Romans 12:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G655}}` **apostygéō** is far more than a simple dislike; it is a profound command **to detest utterly**. Though appearing only once, its placement in scripture is pivotal. It defines the believer's relationship with evil as one of active abhorrence, a stance that is born not of negativity, but of a sincere and **unfeigned** love `{{G505}}` that must **cleave** `{{G2853}}` to what is **good** `{{G18}}`. This single word captures a decisive moral and spiritual posture essential to the Christian walk.
TRV