G647
ἀποστάσιον
properly, something separative, i.e. (specially) divorce
Transliteration
apostásionPronunciation
(ap-os-tas'-ee-on)Everything you need to know.
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properly, something separative, i.e. (specially) divorce
ἀποστάσιον(apostásion)
Strong’s Definition
properly, something separative, i.e. (specially) divorce
neuter of a (presumed) adjective from a derivative of G868 (ἀφίστημι);
“It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement:”
No verses found containing this word study ID.
Pronunciation Guide: ap-os-tas'-ee-on
Basic Definition
Strong's G647: A certificate of divorce; a legal document given by a husband to his wife to terminate their marriage according to Mosaic Law. This term specifically refers to the formal written document that made the dissolution of marriage official and protected the rights of the divorced wife in ancient Jewish society.
Etymology and Morphology
ἀποστάσιον Morphology:
Origin & History
The term ἀποστάσιον has its roots in Hellenistic legal terminology, where it was used broadly for various types of separation documents. In the Septuagint, it became the standard translation for the Hebrew phrase ספר כריתת (sefer keritut), literally "a document of cutting off" as found in Deuteronomy 24:1.
In the papyri of Ptolemaic and Roman Egypt, ἀποστάσιον appears in legal documents concerning property transfers and manumission of slaves (P.Oxy. 4.716). The word gained specific religious-legal significance in Jewish culture through its use in the Septuagint and subsequent rabbinic discussions about divorce procedures.
Expanded Definitions & Translation Options
ἀποστάσιον Translation Options:
Biblical Usage
The term ἀποστάσιον appears specifically in discussions of marriage and divorce in the New Testament, most notably in Yeshua's teaching about divorce. Its limited usage makes each occurrence particularly significant for understanding both the legal and spiritual dimensions of marriage dissolution in biblical times.
The Messiah references this term when addressing the Pharisees' interpretation of Mosaic Law regarding divorce, using it to point back to God's original intent for marriage. The term bridges both the legal requirements of Torah and the spiritual principles that should govern marital relationships.
Cultural Insights
In ancient Jewish society, the ἀποστάσιον served a crucial protective function for women. Without such a document, a divorced woman could be accused of adultery if she remarried, facing severe consequences. The certificate explicitly stated her freedom to remarry and protected her legal rights.
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The process of writing an ἀποστάσιον was carefully regulated in Jewish law. The Mishnah (Gittin 9:3) specifies that it must be written specifically for the woman in question, with witnesses present, and using precise legal terminology. This rigorous process was intended to prevent hasty divorces and protect both parties' rights.
Theological Significance
The concept of ἀποστάσιον reveals both God's accommodation to human hardness of heart and His protective care for vulnerable parties in broken relationships. While divorce was never part of His perfect plan, the requirement for a formal certificate provided essential protections and dignity to divorced women in ancient society.
This term appears at the intersection of God's perfect standards and His merciful provision for human weakness. In Matthew 19:8, Yeshua uses the discussion of ἀποστάσιον to point back to God's original design for marriage while acknowledging the reality of sin and its effects on human relationships.
The requirement for a formal ἀποστάσιον also reflects God's character as a God of order and justice, ensuring that even in broken situations, there would be clear boundaries and protections for all parties involved.
Personal Application
Understanding ἀποστάσιον helps us appreciate both the seriousness with which God views marriage and His compassionate provision for human brokenness. While we should always strive to maintain the sanctity of marriage, this term reminds us that God provides guidance and structure even in difficult situations.
For those dealing with divorce or ministering to divorced persons, this word study reminds us to balance grace and truth, understanding that while God hates divorce, He provides ways to handle broken situations with dignity and care for all involved.
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Remember This
ἀποστάσιον represents God's protective provision within human brokenness, balancing justice with mercy while pointing to His perfect plan for marriage.