### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apotíthēmi**, represented by `{{G659}}`, means **to put away**. It can be used literally or figuratively and is often translated as to cast off, lay apart, lay aside, lay down, or put away. Appearing **10 times** across **8 unique verses**, this term carries a strong sense of decisive removal or renunciation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G659}}` is used in both a literal and a figurative sense. The literal application is seen in Acts, where witnesses at the stoning of Stephen **laid down** their clothes at Saul's feet [[Acts 7:58]]. More frequently, it is used figuratively as a command for believers to shed sinful behaviors and attitudes. This includes instructions to **put off** the old man and his corrupt ways [[Ephesians 4:22]], **cast off** the works of darkness [[Romans 13:12]], and **lay aside** every weight and sin that hinders the Christian race [[Hebrews 12:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the action and context of `{{G659}}`:
* `{{G1746}}` **endýō** (to invest with clothing): This word is often used as the direct counterpart to putting off. Believers are to cast off `{{G659}}` the works of darkness and **put on** the armour of light [[Romans 13:12]].
* `{{G1209}}` **déchomai** (to receive): This action often follows the act of putting away. After laying apart `{{G659}}` all filthiness, one is able to **receive** with meekness the engrafted word [[James 1:21]].
* `{{G2549}}` **kakía** (malice, badness): This is a specific example of what must be put away. Believers are commanded to lay aside `{{G659}}` all **malice** [[1 Peter 2:1]] and to put it off along with anger and wrath [[Colossians 3:8]].
* `{{G5579}}` **pseûdos** (a falsehood): This represents the specific sin of dishonesty that must be discarded. In a direct command, believers are told that, **putting away** lying, they should speak truth with their neighbor [[Ephesians 4:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G659}}` is centered on the process of sanctification and the believer's new identity in Christ.
* **Renunciation of the Old Self:** The term is foundational to the concept of leaving behind a former life. Believers are to **put off** the old man, which is corrupt and driven by deceitful lusts [[Ephesians 4:22]]. This is a definitive action that marks a change in nature and allegiance.
* **Preparation for Spiritual Growth:** Laying things aside is presented as a necessary step for spiritual progress. To effectively run the race of faith, one must first **lay aside** every weight and the sin that so easily besets them [[Hebrews 12:1]].
* **Active Removal of Sin:** The use of `{{G659}}` emphasizes that believers have an active role in purging sin from their lives. The command is to **lay aside** or **put off** a list of specific sins, including malice, guile, hypocrisy, anger, wrath, blasphemy, and filthy communication ([[1 Peter 2:1]], [[Colossians 3:8]]).
* **Embracing the New:** The action of putting off is almost always paired with putting on something new. This is seen most clearly in the call to **cast off** the works of darkness and put on the armour of light [[Romans 13:12]], signifying a complete exchange of one way of living for another.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G659}}` conveys a powerful command that goes beyond simple removal. While it can describe a literal action like laying down clothes, its primary theological use is to illustrate the decisive and ongoing responsibility of the believer to cast off the old, sinful self and its practices. This act of "putting away" is essential for clearing the way to receive God's word, run the race of faith, and live out a new identity in Christ.
TRV