### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apōthéomai**, represented by `{{G683}}`, is a strong term meaning **to push off** or, figuratively, **to reject**. It is used in scripture with force, conveying actions like "cast away," "put away," or "thrust away." This word appears **10 times** across **6 unique verses**, highlighting pivotal moments of rejection.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G683}}` is used to describe decisive acts of rejection against God's authority and message. In Stephen's address, he recounts how an Israelite **thrust** Moses **away**, questioning his authority as a **ruler** `{{G758}}` and **judge** `{{G1348}}` [[Acts 7:27]]. This pattern of rejection continued when their fathers refused to obey Moses and **thrust him from them** [[Acts 7:39]]. Similarly, Paul and Barnabas declare that because the Jews **put** the word of God **from** them, they were turning to the Gentiles [[Acts 13:46]]. The term is also used theologically when Paul asks if God has **cast away** His people, asserting that God has not rejected those whom He **foreknew** `{{G4267}}` [[Romans 11:1-2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and consequences of this rejection:
* `{{G4762}}` **stréphō** (to turn quite around or reverse): This word often appears alongside `{{G683}}` to show the alternative action taken after rejection. When the fathers **thrust** Moses **from them**, they **turned back again** in their hearts to Egypt [[Acts 7:39]].
* `{{G3489}}` **nauagéō** (to be shipwrecked): This illustrates the dire consequence of rejecting faith. In 1 Timothy, those who have **put away** a good conscience have **made shipwreck** concerning the faith [[1 Timothy 1:19]].
* `{{G758}}` **árchōn** (a first (in rank or power)): This word defines what is being rejected. The Israelites **thrust** Moses away after he was appointed to be a **ruler** over them [[Acts 7:27]].
* `{{G5255}}` **hypḗkoos** (attentively listening, i.e. (by implication) submissive): This highlights the disobedience inherent in the act of rejection. The fathers would not **obey**, but instead **thrust** Moses **from them** [[Acts 7:39]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G683}}` is significant, centering on the human response to divine initiative.
* **Rejection of God's Messengers:** The word is used to describe Israel's repeated rejection of God's appointed leader, Moses, setting a precedent for spurning divine authority ([[Acts 7:27]], [[Acts 7:39]]).
* **Rejection of the Gospel:** The act of **putting from** oneself the word of God is shown to have direct consequences, leading to the gospel being offered to the Gentiles [[Acts 13:46]].
* **Contrasting Divine Faithfulness:** The term is powerfully used to contrast human faithlessness with God's fidelity. While people may **cast away** faith, Paul uses the same word to affirm that God has not **cast away** His people [[Romans 11:1-2]].
* **Personal Apostasy:** To **put away** faith and a good conscience is portrayed as a deliberate, personal choice that results in spiritual ruin, or **shipwreck** [[1 Timothy 1:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G683}}` is more than a simple refusal; it signifies a forceful and final act of pushing away or casting off. From the historical rejection of Moses to the personal act of forsaking faith, the word underscores the gravity of spurning God's revelation and authority. Its use also provides a stark contrast to God's own character, as He does not **cast away** the people He has chosen.
TRV