Understanding ἀπολείχω (apoleichō) Strong’s G621: The Profound Act of Licking That Reveals Divine Mercy in Suffering

Pronunciation Guide: ap-ol-i’-kho

Basic Definition

Strong’s G621: ἀπολείχω (apoleichō) describes the act of licking off or licking clean, particularly in contexts of desperate need or intense desire. In biblical usage, it carries profound connotations of extreme poverty, suffering, and the search for relief. This compound word intensifies the basic meaning of “to lick,” emphasizing thoroughness and desperation in the action.

Etymology and Morphology

• Compound verb formed from ἀπό (from, away from) + λείχω (to lick)
• Used primarily in narrative contexts
• Appears in Koine Greek literature primarily in medical and descriptive contexts
• Found only once in the New Testament
• Appears in various forms in classical Greek literature

ἀπολείχω Morphology:

• ἀπολείχω (present active indicative) – I lick off/clean
• ἀπολείχειν (present active infinitive) – to lick off/clean
• ἀπέλειχον (imperfect active indicative) – was licking off/clean
• ἀπολείχοντες (present active participle masculine plural nominative) – licking off/clean

Origin & History

The word ἀπολείχω has deep roots in classical Greek literature, where it appears in medical writings of Hippocrates describing animals licking their wounds clean. In the Septuagint, while not directly appearing, related forms of λείχω are used to describe dogs licking up blood (1 Kings 21:19) and the prophetic challenge on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18:38).

In extra-biblical literature, Lucian of Samosata uses the term to describe desperate actions of the destitute, which provides important context for its New Testament usage. The compound form with ἀπό intensifies the action, suggesting thoroughness and completion of the licking action.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• To lick off completely or thoroughly
• To clean by licking
• To lick away (as in removing something by licking)
• To eagerly lick (suggesting desperate desire)

ἀπολείχω Translation Options:

• “licked clean” – emphasizes the thoroughness of the action
• “eagerly licked” – highlights the desperate nature of the action
• “kept licking” – captures the continuous aspect of the imperfect tense
• “licked off” – emphasizes the removal aspect suggested by the ἀπό prefix

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἀπολείχω appears exclusively in Luke 16:21, where it describes dogs licking the sores of Lazarus in the parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus. This usage creates a powerful image of extreme destitution and suffering, while simultaneously hinting at God’s provision of mercy even in the midst of desperate circumstances.

The word choice is particularly significant given Luke’s background as a physician, suggesting a deliberate selection to convey both medical and theological implications. The imperfect tense used in the passage suggests ongoing action, painting a vivid picture of continuous suffering but also persistent care, albeit from unexpected sources.

• “moreover even the dogs were coming and licking [ἀπολείχω] his sores.” Luke 16:21

Cultural Insights

In ancient Near Eastern culture, dogs were generally considered unclean and were often associated with outcasts and gentiles. However, there’s a fascinating paradox in the use of ἀπολείχω in Luke 16:21. While dogs were seen as unclean, their saliva was recognized for its healing properties in both Greek and Roman medicine. This creates a powerful literary device where the very symbol of uncleanness becomes an instrument of mercy.

The cultural understanding of dogs licking wounds wasn’t merely about cleaning but was recognized as a healing action. Ancient medical writers, including Pliny the Elder, documented the healing properties of dog saliva, particularly for surface wounds. This medical understanding adds depth to Luke’s careful word choice, suggesting that even in Lazarus’s extreme destitution, God provided a form of medical care through the most unexpected sources.

Theological Significance

The use of ἀπολείχω in Luke 16:21 carries profound theological implications about God’s character and His care for the suffering. The dogs’ action, described with this specific term, reveals how God can work through unexpected means to provide comfort and care to those who suffer. This mirrors the broader biblical theme of God using the lowly and despised things of the world to accomplish His purposes (1 Corinthians 1:27-28).

The word choice also points to the reality that God’s mercy often comes through unexpected channels. Just as He used ravens to feed Elijah (1 Kings 17:4), here we see Him using dogs – considered unclean – to provide some measure of relief to Lazarus. This demonstrates that God’s care transcends cultural boundaries and expectations.

Personal Application

Understanding ἀπολείχω challenges us to recognize God’s provision and mercy in unexpected places. When we feel most abandoned or in desperate circumstances, this word reminds us that God can work through the most unlikely sources to provide comfort and care. It calls us to remain open to God’s mercy appearing in unexpected forms and through unexpected channels.

The word also invites us to be instruments of God’s mercy, even in seemingly small or humble ways. Just as the dogs provided what relief they could to Lazarus, we too are called to offer whatever care we can to those who suffer, regardless of how insignificant our help might seem.

Related Words

• θεραπεύω (therapeuo) – to heal, serve: Related through its healing context, though more formal medical treatment. See G2323
• ἰάομαι (iaomai) – to heal, cure: Connects to the therapeutic aspect implied in the dogs’ licking. See G2390
• λείχω (leicho) – to lick: The root word without the intensifying prefix. See G3015
• ἐπιμελέομαι (epimeleomai) – to take care of: Relates to the aspect of care shown even by the dogs. See G1959

Did you Know?

• Modern medical research has confirmed what ancient peoples knew intuitively – dog saliva contains compounds that can help clean wounds and promote healing, including the enzyme lysozyme and nerve growth factor.
• The word ἀπολείχω was used in ancient Greek veterinary texts to describe how animals instinctively clean and treat their wounds, showing an early understanding of natural healing behaviors.
• In modern Greek, derivatives of this word are still used in medical terminology, particularly in descriptions of wound-cleaning procedures, maintaining a connection to its ancient medical significance.

Remember This

ἀπολείχω reminds us that God’s mercy and healing can come through the most unexpected sources, teaching us to remain open to His provision in all its forms.