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.
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.
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.
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.
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