Brief Overview of ἀπέχομαι (G567)

Meaning and Usage:

• General Definition: The Greek verb ἀπέχομαι (apékhomai) is derived from the prefix ἀπό (apó, “from”) and the root ἔχω (échō, “to have”). It generally means “to refrain from” or “to abstain from.” The term indicates a voluntary withdrawal or avoidance of something.
• Contextual Usage: ἀπέχομαι is used to describe the act of refraining or abstaining from certain actions, practices, or behaviors. It emphasizes a deliberate choice to avoid or stay away from something.

Detailed Overview with Additional Concordances

Etymology and Lexicon References:

1. Strong’s Concordance (G567): According to Strong’s, ἀπέχομαι means “to abstain from” or “to refrain from.” The term is used to denote a voluntary choice to avoid or withdraw from certain things or practices.
2. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon: Thayer’s defines ἀπέχομαι as “to refrain from” or “to abstain from.” It describes how the term is used in various contexts to indicate a deliberate avoidance or detachment from something. Thayer’s emphasizes its usage in moral or religious contexts, where it often signifies abstaining from sinful or undesirable actions.
3. BDAG (Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich): BDAG provides a detailed definition of ἀπέχομαι as “to abstain from” or “to refrain from.” It notes that the term can be used in both literal and metaphorical senses to indicate a deliberate separation or avoidance. BDAG includes examples of how ἀπέχομαι is applied in various contexts, including religious and ethical teachings.
4. LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): The LSJ Greek-English Lexicon defines ἀπέχομαι as “to abstain from” or “to refrain from.” It provides examples of the term’s usage in classical Greek literature, highlighting its application in contexts involving voluntary withdrawal or avoidance.

Biblical Context:

• Usage in Scripture: In the New Testament, ἀπέχομαι is used in passages like 1 Corinthians 7:5, where it refers to abstaining from marital relations for a period of time. It is also found in 1 Thessalonians 4:3, where it signifies abstaining from sexual immorality. The term is used to convey a deliberate choice to refrain from certain behaviors or practices.

In summary, ἀπέχομαι (G567) refers to “abstaining from” or “refraining from” something. It indicates a voluntary choice to avoid or withdraw from specific actions or practices. Greek lexicons and biblical contexts document its usage, emphasizing its application in both literal and metaphorical senses, particularly in moral or religious contexts.