Brief Overview of ἀφορίζω (G873: aphorizō)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: aphorizō

Root Words: Derived from apo- (from, away from) and horizō (to define, bound), meaning “to separate” or “to set apart”.

Primary Meanings:

• To separate or set apart for a specific purpose or use.
• To exclude or banish from a group or society.
• To distinguish or differentiate.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: Highlights the term as used for setting someone or something apart for God’s purposes, often with a sacred connotation.

Thayer’s: Discusses its usage in terms of moral and spiritual separation, such as separating oneself from worldly practices.

Vines: Analyzes its application in ecclesiastical settings, particularly in the context of church discipline.

LSJ: Reflects on its classical usage in legal and ceremonial contexts, where it pertains to the exclusion from civic activities or sacred rites.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Emphasizes its biblical use in contexts where God sets apart individuals or groups for holy purposes.

Bible Verses:

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• Romans 1:1: “Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,”
• Acts 13:2: “As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.”

3. Classic Greek Literature:

Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

• Philosophical Works: Employed in discussions about purity and moral excellence, where philosophers advocate for a separation from base desires.
• Legal Texts: Used to describe the procedural act of separating disputants or defining legal boundaries.
• Literary Texts: Found in dramas where characters are set apart by fate or divine intervention for specific roles or destinies.

4. Summary:

ἀφορίζω (aphorizō) serves as a powerful term in both secular and sacred texts, representing the act of separation or dedication for a higher purpose. This word’s study through various lexicons not only deepens our understanding of its religious implications but also enhances our appreciation for its broader cultural and philosophical roles. This exploration shows how aphorizō has been instrumental in defining social, legal, and spiritual boundaries across ancient Greek and early Christian contexts.