The Greek word apheidía, represented by G857, denotes neglecting or austerity. Its base definition is unsparingness or asceticism, derived from a compound of the negative particle 'A' and the word for "to spare." This term is highly specific, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible.
The sole biblical appearance of G857 is in Colossians 2:23. In this verse, the term is used to describe a set of practices that have a "shew of wisdom." This includes "will worship," "humility," and the neglecting of the body. The passage presents these actions as having no real value or "honour" in dealing with the "satisfying of the flesh," positioning G857 within a critique of man-made, severe asceticism.
Several related words from its only context in Colossians 2:23 help clarify the meaning of G857:
- G5012 tapeinophrosýnē (humility): This refers to a humiliation of mind or modesty and is listed alongside the act of neglecting the body as part of a false, outward piety Colossians 2:23.
- G4983 sōma (body): This is the direct object of the "neglecting." It refers to the physical body, which is subjected to the harsh discipline described by G857.
- G4140 plēsmonḗ (satisfying): Defined as a filling up or gratification, this is what the false asceticism fails to properly address.
- G4561 sárx (flesh): This word points to human nature with its frailties and passions. The practices, including G857, are ultimately ineffective against the desires of the flesh Colossians 2:23.
- G5092 timḗ (honour): This refers to value or esteem. The verse states that the neglecting of the body is not in any "honour," implying it lacks true spiritual worth.
The theological weight of G857 is found in its specific, critical context.
- External Religion: The term is a key component in a description of religious practices that are external and have only an "shew of wisdom" rather than true substance Colossians 2:23.
- False Asceticism: G857 represents a misguided attempt to achieve spirituality through severe treatment—a neglecting—of the physical body G4983. The passage contrasts this with a true spiritual life.
- Ineffectiveness Against the Flesh: The central critique is that this "neglecting of the body" is of no value for curbing the indulgence or "satisfying" G4140 of the "flesh" G4561, highlighting a misunderstanding of the nature of sin and sanctification.
In summary, G857 is a precise term for austerity or the unsparing, harsh treatment of the body. Its single use in scripture serves as a powerful warning against religious practices that appear wise but are ultimately of no value. It illustrates the biblical distinction between external, self-imposed regulations and genuine, spirit-led transformation that deals effectively with the flesh.
TRV