The Greek word aphedrṓn, represented by G856, refers to a place set apart for waste, specifically a privy or draught. It appears only 2 times in 2 unique verses in the Bible. Its base definition indicates a place of sitting apart, emphasizing its function as a latrine for physical elimination.
In the biblical narrative, G856 is used by Jesus to make a crucial distinction between physical and spiritual cleanliness. He explains that whatever a person eats entereth in at the mouth G4750, goes into the belly G2836, and is ultimately cast out G1544 into the draught Matthew 15:17. This physical process does not defile a person because it never touches the heart G2588. Instead, the food is expelled, in the process purging G2511 all G3956 meats G1033 Mark 7:19.
Several related words help clarify the context in which G856 appears:
- G2588 kardía (heart): This is presented as the true source of defilement, in direct contrast to the digestive system. It is from the heart that evil thoughts proceed Mark 7:21.
- G2836 koilía (belly): The temporary vessel for food before it is expelled. Paul uses this word to make a similar point, stating, "Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them" 1 Corinthians 6:13.
- G1531 eisporeúomai (to enter): This describes the action of food going into a person. Jesus uses it to explain that what entereth from without cannot defile a person Mark 7:18. Its counterpart, G1607 ekporeúomai (to depart, proceed), describes what comes out of a person as the source of defilement Mark 7:15.
The theological weight of G856 is found in its role within Jesus's teaching on purity.
- Physical vs. Spiritual Defilement: The use of aphedrṓn powerfully illustrates that sin is not a matter of external ritual or diet. True defilement cometh G1607 out of the mouth G4750 because it originates in the heart Matthew 15:11.
- Abolition of Dietary Laws: By explaining that food passes through the body and into the draught, Jesus declares all G3956 meats G1033 clean Mark 7:19. This moment is a turning point, shifting the focus from the Mosaic food laws to the state of a person's inner self.
- The Locus of Sin: The destination of food, the draught G856, is a mundane and physical place. This contrasts sharply with the spiritual significance of the heart G2588, which God is concerned with and desires to make clean James 4:8.
In summary, G856 is more than just a word for a toilet; it is a key element in a profound theological argument. Though used only twice, it serves to draw a clear line between the temporary, physical processes of the body and the eternal, spiritual state of the heart. It underscores the principle that what truly defines a person before God is not what goes into their body, but what proceeds from their inner character.
TRV