### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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