### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ἀφαιρέω (aphairéō, `{{G851}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition ἀπό (apo), meaning "from" or "away from," and the verb αἱρέω (haireō), meaning "to take" or "to choose." Thus, its core meaning is "to take away from," "to remove," or "to cut off." This can be understood in both a literal and a figurative sense. Literally, it denotes physical separation or amputation. Figuratively, it conveys the sense of deprivation, abolition, or the removal of a privilege, ability, or state. The underlying semantic thrust is one of detachment and severance, indicating that something once present or held is now gone.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word ἀφαιρέω (aphairéō) appears a limited number of times in the New Testament, but each occurrence offers distinct contextual insights into its semantic range:
* **Literal Physical Removal:**
* In the accounts of Jesus' arrest, the verb describes Peter's impulsive act: "And behold, one of those who were with Jesus stretched out his hand and drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his ear" ([[Matthew 26:51]]). A parallel account is found in [[Mark 14:47]]. Here, ἀφαιρέω signifies a violent, decisive severance of a physical part.
* **Figurative Deprivation of Ability:**
* Regarding Zacharias's temporary muteness, Luke records, "And when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple; and he kept making signs to them and remained speechless" ([[Luke 1:22]]). While the ESV translates "remained speechless," the underlying Greek implies that his ability to speak was "taken away" or "removed." This denotes a divine act of deprivation as a consequence of unbelief.
* **Figurative Removal of Privilege or Position:**
* In the parable of the unrighteous steward, the steward laments, "I cannot dig; to beg I am ashamed. I know what I will do, so that when I am removed from my stewardship, people may receive me into their houses" ([[Luke 16:3]]). Here, ἀφαιρέω refers to the steward's impending dismissal from his position, signifying the removal of his authority and responsibility.
* **Figurative Permanence of a Spiritual Choice:**
* In the narrative of Mary and Martha, Jesus commends Mary's choice: "but one thing is necessary, and Mary has chosen the good part, which will not be taken away from her" ([[Luke 10:42]]). This usage highlights the enduring nature of spiritual devotion and the wisdom of prioritizing eternal truths. The "good part" chosen by Mary is not subject to the vicissitudes of life or the power of others to remove it.
* **Figurative Divine Judgment/Consequence:**
* The book of Revelation contains a solemn warning: "If anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his share from the tree of life and from the holy city, which are described in this book" ([[Revelation 22:19]]). This is a powerful declaration of divine judgment, where "taking away" from the sacred text results in God's "taking away" of one's eternal inheritance. It underscores the gravity of tampering with divine revelation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of "taking away" or "removing" is expressed by several Greek words, each with its own nuance. While ἀφαιρέω (aphairéō, `{{G851}}`) specifically emphasizes separation *from* something, other related terms include:
* αἴρω (airō, `{{G142}}`): A more general verb meaning "to lift up," "to take up," or "to take away." It can refer to carrying something off or removing it. For example, in [[John 1:29]], Jesus is identified as the "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world."
* ἀναιρέω (anairéō, `{{G408}}`): Often carries a stronger sense of "taking up" or "destroying," and can even mean "to kill" or "to put to death," implying a more forceful or definitive removal.
* ἐξαιρέω (exairéō, `{{G1807}}`): Means "to take out," "to pluck out," or "to deliver," suggesting removal from a dangerous or undesirable situation.
* καθαιρέω (kathairéō, `{{G2507}}`): Means "to take down," "to pull down," or "to demolish," often used for structures or positions of power.
The concept of "taking away" also stands in contrast to "giving" (δίδωμι, didōmi, `{{G1325}}`) or "adding" (προστίθημι, prostithēmi, `{{G4369}}`), particularly evident in the warning in Revelation. The semantic field encompasses themes of loss, deprivation, judgment, and the permanence of certain spiritual realities.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἀφαιρέω (aphairéō, `{{G851}}`) is multifaceted, touching upon divine sovereignty, human responsibility, and the nature of spiritual blessings.
Firstly, in the context of divine judgment, as seen in [[Revelation 22:19]], the verb highlights God's absolute authority to "take away" eternal blessings from those who corrupt His Word. This underscores the sanctity of Scripture and the severe consequences of its distortion. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's justice and His unwavering commitment to preserve the integrity of His revelation.
Secondly, the temporary deprivation of Zacharias's speech in [[Luke 1:22]] illustrates a divine act of discipline or consequence for unbelief. This shows that God may "take away" human abilities or privileges in response to human actions, for His purposes and to bring about His will.
Thirdly, the enduring nature of Mary's choice in [[Luke 10:42]] provides profound theological insight. The "good part" chosen by Mary, which "will not be taken away from her," signifies the eternal security and lasting value of spiritual devotion to Christ. Unlike earthly possessions or fleeting achievements, the spiritual blessings derived from prioritizing Christ are permanent and inviolable, demonstrating the enduring grace and faithfulness of God to those who seek Him.
Finally, while Peter's act of cutting off the ear in [[Matthew 26:51]] is a human action, it contrasts sharply with Christ's non-resistance and His power to heal. This juxtaposition subtly highlights the difference between impulsive human intervention and divine purpose, where even physical "taking away" can be immediately reversed by divine power.
### Summary
The Greek verb ἀφαιρέω (aphairéō, `{{G851}}`) fundamentally means "to take away from," "to remove," or "to cut off." Its usage in the New Testament spans both literal physical removal, as seen in Peter's cutting off of the servant's ear, and various figurative applications. These figurative uses convey the deprivation of an ability (Zacharias's speech), the removal of a position or privilege (the unrighteous steward), the enduring nature of spiritual blessings that cannot be removed (Mary's good part), and the solemn divine judgment of having one's eternal share "taken away" for corrupting God's Word. Theologically, ἀφαιρέω speaks to divine sovereignty in judgment and discipline, the lasting security of spiritual choices, and the transient nature of earthly advantages compared to eternal truths. It underscores the solemnity of divine actions and the profound implications of human choices in relation to God's will.
TRV