Understanding ἀπάγχω (apagchō) Strong’s G519: The Tragic Greek Term for Self-Strangulation in Biblical Context

Pronunciation Guide: ah-PANG-kho (ἀ-πάγ-χω)

Basic Definition

Strong’s G519: A compound verb meaning “to strangle oneself” or “to hang oneself.” This term specifically denotes death by self-strangulation or hanging, combining the preposition “apo” (away from) with “agchō” (to squeeze or strangle). It appears only once in the New Testament, describing Judas Iscariot’s death.

Etymology and Morphology

• Verb (Present Active Indicative)
• Compound word: ἀπό (away from) + ἄγχω (to squeeze/strangle)
• Primary usage in narrative sections
• Rare in biblical literature but found in classical Greek texts
• Middle/passive voice implications

ἀπάγχω Morphology:

• ἀπάγχω (present active) – I strangle/hang
• ἀπήγξατο (aorist middle) – he hanged himself
• ἀπαγχόμενος (present middle participle) – hanging oneself
• ἀπηγχόμην (imperfect middle/passive) – I was hanging myself

Origin & History

The term ἀπάγχω has roots in classical Greek literature, where it appears in works describing both literal and metaphorical strangulation. Herodotus uses it in his Histories (2.131) to describe the death of a princess by hanging. The compound form with ἀπό emphasizes the complete nature of the action, suggesting separation or completion.

In the Septuagint, this verb appears in 2 Samuel 17:23 to describe Ahithophel’s suicide by hanging after his counsel was rejected by Absalom. This usage parallels its later New Testament application, both involving betrayal narratives and subsequent self-destruction.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• To strangle oneself completely
• To hang oneself with fatal intent
• To choke off (in a reflexive sense)

ἀπάγχω Translation Options:

• “Hanged himself” – Most precise for biblical context, capturing both method and agency
• “Strangled himself” – Technically accurate but less commonly used in English translations
• “Took his own life by hanging” – More euphemistic modern rendering
• “Committed suicide by strangulation” – Clinical/technical translation

Biblical Usage

The term ἀπάγχω appears with stark brevity in Matthew 27:5 describing Judas Iscariot’s final act: “καὶ ἀπελθὼν ἀπήγξατο” (“and he went away and hanged himself”). This usage follows the pattern seen in the Septuagint account of Ahithophel, linking both narratives through linguistic parallelism.

The rarity of this term in biblical literature highlights its specific technical meaning and the gravity with which Scripture treats such events. While the Bible records several instances of suicide, the use of ἀπάγχω is reserved for these particular narratives involving betrayal and subsequent self-destruction.

• “and he went away and hanged himself [ἀπήγξατο]” Matthew 27:5
• “and hanged himself [ἀπήγξατο]” 2 Samuel 17:23 (Septuagint)

Cultural Insights

In both Greek and Jewish culture, death by hanging carried particular shame and social stigma. The method of death described by ἀπάγχω was considered especially disgraceful, often associated with betrayal and despair. In Jewish tradition, the body of one who died by hanging was to be buried before sunset (Deuteronomy 21:22-23), reflecting the serious view taken of such deaths.

The parallel between Ahithophel and Judas extends beyond the linguistic connection. Both were trusted advisors who betrayed their lords (David and Jesus respectively), both realized the magnitude of their betrayal, and both chose the same tragic end. This cultural and narrative parallel would have been readily apparent to first-century Jewish readers.

Theological Significance

The use of ἀπάγχω in Scripture appears in contexts that powerfully illustrate the consequences of betrayal against God’s anointed ones. While the term itself is technical, its usage points to deeper spiritual truths about the devastating effects of betrayal, the weight of guilt, and the tragic consequences of turning away from God’s mercy.

These accounts serve not as mere historical records but as solemn warnings about the deadly nature of betrayal and the importance of genuine repentance. Unlike Peter, who wept bitterly but sought restoration, both Judas and Ahithophel chose final despair over the possibility of divine mercy.

This word also appears in stark contrast to Jesus’s words about abundant life and His power to save completely those who come to Him. Even in such dark contexts, Scripture consistently points to the hope and redemption available through the Messiah.

Personal Application

While this term’s specific meaning might seem distant from daily Christian experience, it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of maintaining faithful relationships – both with God and others. It calls us to examine our hearts regarding loyalty, trust, and the proper handling of guilt and remorse.

The tragic accounts associated with this word should move us toward greater appreciation for God’s mercy and the importance of responding to conviction with genuine repentance rather than despair. They remind us that no sin is beyond God’s forgiveness when approached with true contrition and faith in His mercy.

Related Words

• πνίγω (pnigō) – to choke, strangle (without the specific self-inflicted connotation) See G4155
• ἄγχω (agchō) – to squeeze, compress (the root word without the prefix) See G43
• θανατόω (thanatoō) – to put to death (more general term for causing death) See G2289
• σφάζω (sphazō) – to slay, slaughter (different method of causing death) See G4969

Did you Know?

• The compound structure of ἀπάγχω (apo + agchō) is reflected in the English word “hang” which also originally carried the sense of constriction or pressure.
• The term was used in ancient medical texts to describe various forms of strangulation, showing its technical precision in describing this specific cause of death.
• Modern Greek has preserved this word almost unchanged, though it’s now primarily used in historical or literary contexts rather than everyday speech.

Remember This

ἀπάγχω stands as a somber reminder that even in recording history’s darkest moments, Scripture maintains precise language while pointing us toward the hope and mercy found in the Messiah.