from ἀφανής; to render unapparent, i.e. (actively) consume (becloud), or (passively) disappear (be destroyed):-- corrupt, disfigure, perish, vanish away.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aphanízō**, represented by `{{G853}}`, means to render something unapparent. It appears 5 times in 5 unique verses. The word carries a range of meanings related to destruction or disappearance, including to **corrupt**, **disfigure**, **perish**, or **vanish away**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Bible, `{{G853}}` is used to illustrate different forms of disappearance or ruin. It describes the physical decay of earthly treasures, which moth and rust **corrupt** [[Matthew 6:19-20]]. It is also used to describe the intentional act of hypocrites who **disfigure** their faces to appear holy to others [[Matthew 6:16]]. The word emphasizes impermanence, as in the description of human life as a vapor that **vanisheth away** [[James 4:14]]. Finally, it serves as a stern warning, where those who are despisers are told they will **perish** [[Acts 13:41]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the various meanings of `{{G853}}`:
* `{{G1035}}` **brōsis** (eating, food, meat): In the context of corruptible items, this word is translated as "rust," referring to a consuming decay that works alongside moth to **corrupt** earthly treasures [[Matthew 6:19]].
* `{{G822}}` **atmís** (mist): This word for **vapour** is used to create a direct parallel for `{{G853}}`. Human life is described as a **vapour** that appears briefly and then "vanisheth away" [[James 4:14]].
* `{{G2343}}` **thēsaurízō** (to amass or reserve): This word, meaning to **lay up** treasure, establishes the context in which `{{G853}}` functions. The warning is against laying up treasures on earth where they can be corrupted or destroyed [[Matthew 6:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G853}}` is significant, highlighting key spiritual truths.
* **The Impermanence of Earthly Treasure:** The word is used to contrast fleeting earthly possessions with eternal heavenly treasures. It emphasizes that material things are subject to being **corrupted** and made to disappear by natural decay [[Matthew 6:19-20]].
* **The Warning Against Hypocrisy:** By using `{{G853}}` to describe how hypocrites **disfigure** their faces, the text highlights a spiritual corruption. They make their true appearance vanish in order to gain a reward from men, obscuring their inner state [[Matthew 6:16]].
* **The Brevity of Human Life:** The use of `{{G853}}` to describe life as a vapor that **vanisheth away** serves as a powerful reminder of human frailty and the temporary nature of our existence on earth [[James 4:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G853}}` is a versatile word that signifies making something unapparent, whether through active destruction or passive disappearance. Its applications range from the physical decay of treasure to the intentional deception of a disfigured face, and from the swift passing of human life to the prophesied end for despisers. Ultimately, **aphanízō** serves as a recurring scriptural warning about the instability of the seen world, urging a focus on that which cannot be corrupted, disfigured, or made to vanish away.
TRV