### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apóchrēsis**, represented by `{{G671}}`, refers to the act of **using** up or consumption. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its very specific application. Its meaning is tied to the concept of things that are consumed and destroyed through their use.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G671}}` is found in a rhetorical question in Colossians. The passage discusses things **which**{G3739} **all**{G3956} **are**{G2076} **to**{G1519} **perish**{G5356} with the **using** `{{G671}}`. This points to physical or created things that are temporary by nature, as they are consumed or used up. The verse contrasts these fleeting items with the man-made **commandments**{G1778} **and**{G2532} **doctrines**{G1319} that were being imposed on the Colossian believers [[Colossians 2:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the immediate context clarify the meaning of `{{G671}}`:
* `{{G5356}}` **phthorá** (perish): This word for decay or ruin is directly paired with **apóchrēsis**, showing that the result of "using" these particular things is their destruction or **corruption** [[Galatians 6:8]].
* `{{G1778}}` **éntalma** (commandment): This refers to a religious precept. The passage contrasts temporary things that perish with the **using** against the man-made **commandments** of **men**{G444} [[Matthew 15:9]].
* `{{G1319}}` **didaskalía** (doctrine): This term for instruction or teaching is used alongside **éntalma**. The things that perish are part of a system based on the **doctrines** of **men**{G444}, not divine truth [[Colossians 2:22]].
* `{{G444}}` **ánthrōpos** (man): This identifies the source of the doctrines and commandments as human, rather than divine, highlighting their limited and temporary nature [[Mark 7:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G671}}` is found in its contrast between the temporary and the eternal.
* **Transience of Physical Things:** The word emphasizes that certain rules and regulations are tied to physical items that are consumed and cease to exist. They are destined **to**{G1519} **perish**{G5356} with the **using**{G671} [[Colossians 2:22]].
* **Human-Centered Religion:** Its use highlights a critique of religious systems built on the **commandments**{G1778} **and**{G2532} **doctrines**{G1319} of **men**{G444}. These are presented as things that are ultimately consumed and lack eternal significance.
* **Contrast with Incorruption:** The concept of perishing through use stands in opposition to the biblical theme of incorruption. While flesh reaps **corruption**{G5356}, the Spirit reaps everlasting life [[Galatians 6:8]].
### Summary
In summary, **apóchrēsis** `{{G671}}` provides a specific and potent concept within its single biblical appearance. It describes the "using up" of things that are temporary by nature. Its significance lies not in the act of consumption itself, but in its use as a powerful argument against focusing on man-made religious rules concerning things that ultimately **perish**{G5356}, rather than on divine and eternal truths.
TRV