from a presumed derivative of ἀπόλλυμι; ruin or loss (physical, spiritual or eternal):--damnable(-nation), destruction, die, perdition, X perish, pernicious ways, waste.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apṓleia**, represented by `{{G684}}`, signifies **ruin or loss**. It appears **20 times** across **19 unique verses**. Derived from a presumed derivative of `{{G622}}` (apóllymi), its meaning encompasses physical, spiritual, or eternal ruin, and is translated as **destruction**, **perdition**, **damnation**, and **waste**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G684}}` describes the ultimate end of a path chosen in opposition to God. It is the destination of the "broad" way that many enter [[Matthew 7:13]]. The term is strongly associated with false teachers who introduce "damnable heresies" and bring upon themselves "swift **destruction**" [[2 Peter 2:1]]. It is also used as a title for the "man of sin," called the "son of **perdition**" [[2 Thessalonians 2:3]], a figure also referenced in John's gospel [[John 17:12]]. In a more physical sense, it describes material loss, as when the disciples expressed indignation over the "**waste**" of expensive ointment ([[Matthew 26:8]]; [[Mark 14:4]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of ruin and loss:
* `{{G622}}` **apóllymi** (to destroy fully): This is the root verb from which `{{G684}}` is derived, signifying the act of destroying or perishing. In [[John 17:12]], it is stated that none of the disciples are **lost** `{{G622}}` except for the son of **perdition** `{{G684}}`.
* `{{G646}}` **apostasía** (falling away): This term is directly linked to perdition. A "**falling away**" is described as a precursor to the revealing of the "son of **perdition**" `{{G684}}`, indicating that defection from truth leads to ruin [[2 Thessalonians 2:3]].
* `{{G4761}}` **streblóō** (to pervert): This word describes the act of twisting scripture. The unlearned and unstable **wrest** `{{G4761}}` the scriptures to their own **destruction** `{{G684}}`, showing a direct link between misinterpretation and ruin [[2 Peter 3:16]].
* `{{G5056}}` **télos** (end): This word refers to a conclusion or ultimate result. It is used to state that the **end** `{{G5056}}` for those who mind earthly things is **destruction** `{{G684}}` [[Philippians 3:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G684}}` is immense, often highlighting a final, irreversible state.
* **Final Judgment:** The concept of `{{G684}}` is tied to God's final judgment. It describes the state of "vessels of wrath fitted to **destruction**" [[Romans 9:22]] and the ultimate fate of "ungodly men" on the day of judgment [[2 Peter 3:7]]. The beast in Revelation is also depicted as one who will go into **perdition** [[Revelation 17:8]].
* **A Contrast to Salvation:** The term is frequently set in direct opposition to salvation. For believers, their adversaries' path is a sign of **perdition** `{{G684}}`, while their own path leads to **salvation** `{{G4991}}` [[Philippians 1:28]]. Believers are described as those who do not draw back to **perdition** but believe to the saving of the soul [[Hebrews 10:39]].
* **The Consequence of Sinful Living:** `{{G684}}` is presented as the end result of certain lifestyles. Those who desire to be rich fall into temptations that "drown men in destruction and **perdition**" [[1 Timothy 6:9]]. Likewise, false teachers motivated by covetousness face a "damnation" that does not slumber [[2 Peter 2:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G684}}` is a term with significant theological weight, extending beyond simple physical ruin. It encompasses concepts from material **waste** [[Mark 14:4]] to the eternal **perdition** that is the final consequence for the "son of perdition" [[2 Thessalonians 2:3]]. The word serves as a stark warning, defining the outcome of walking the broad way [[Matthew 7:13]] and following false teachings [[2 Peter 2:1]]. It stands in direct contrast to salvation, distinguishing between those who draw back to **perdition** and those who believe to the saving of the soul [[Hebrews 10:39]].
TRV