### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apochōrízō**, represented by `{{G673}}`, means to **rend apart** or, reflexively, to **separate**. It is formed from the words ἀπό (from) and χωρίζω (to separate). It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, carrying a sense of decisive and often dramatic parting.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{G673}}` illustrate its meaning in both human and cosmic contexts. In [[Acts 15:39]], the word describes a sharp relational break, where a "contention" `{{G3948}}` between Paul and Barnabas `{{G921}}` becomes so intense that they **departed asunder** one from the other. In [[Revelation 6:14]], the term is used to describe a cataclysmic event of the end times, where "the heaven **departed** as a scroll `{{G975}}` when it is rolled together" `{{G1507}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{G673}}` is used:
* `{{G575}}` **apó** (from, away): As a foundational component of **apochōrízō**, this word signifies origin or separation, denoting the point from which a departure occurs.
* `{{G3948}}` **paroxysmós** (contention, dispute): This word explains the cause of the separation in [[Acts 15:39]]. The disagreement was so sharp and intense that it resulted in Paul and Barnabas parting ways.
* `{{G2795}}` **kinéō** (to stir, move): Used in [[Revelation 6:14]], this word describes how every mountain `{{G3735}}` and island `{{G3520}}` were **moved** out of their places, an action that occurs in conjunction with the heaven departing `{{G673}}`, highlighting the scale of the cosmic upheaval.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G673}}` is seen in its two distinct applications, showing the gravity of separation.
* **Relational Division:** Its use in [[Acts 15:39]] highlights that even among devout believers, sharp disagreement can lead to a necessary, if painful, parting. The separation was the direct result of a "contention" `{{G3948}}`.
* **Cosmic Judgment:** In [[Revelation 6:14]], the word signifies a profound act of eschatological judgment. The physical heaven, a symbol of stability, is "rent apart," illustrating a complete and forceful unmaking of the existing created order.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G673}}` **apochōrízō** is a potent term for a conclusive and often forceful separation. Though used rarely, its appearances mark moments of significant division—one a painful parting of ways between missionaries [[Acts 15:39]] and the other a terrifying deconstruction of the cosmos itself as part of divine judgment [[Revelation 6:14]].
TRV