ἀπέκδυσις

a putting off, casting off

Definition

ἀπέκδυσις (apekdysis) is a noun meaning 'a putting off' or 'a stripping away,' often used metaphorically to describe the complete removal of something, like taking off a garment. In its sole New Testament occurrence in Colossians 2:11, it specifically refers to 'the putting off of the body of the flesh' in the context of spiritual circumcision performed by Christ. This denotes a decisive break from the old, sinful nature, not merely a partial change but a total removal. The word carries a sense of finality and completeness in this act of separation.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Colossians 2:11. It appears in a theological argument by Paul about the believer's identification with Christ, stating, 'In him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human hands. Your whole self ruled by the flesh was put off (ἀπέκδυσις) when you were circumcised by Christ.' Its usage is exclusively metaphorical and deeply theological, describing the spiritual reality of conversion.

Etymology

Derived from the verb ἀπεκδύομαι (apekdyomai), meaning 'to strip off from oneself.' It is a compound word: ἀπό (apo, 'away from') + ἐκδύω (ekdyō, 'to take off, strip'). The prefix intensifies the sense of complete removal or stripping away. The root concept is vividly physical—the act of undressing—which is then applied spiritually.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures the definitive nature of the believer's break with the sinful past through union with Christ. It enriches the understanding of Colossians 2:11 by emphasizing that spiritual circumcision is not a minor adjustment but a complete 'putting off' of the old, fleshly identity. This concept is central to the doctrine of sanctification and the new creation, illustrating the decisive and complete work of Christ in a believer's life.

In the first-century Greco-Roman world, the metaphor of changing garments was a common way to describe a transformation of identity or status. The specific image of 'stripping off' (ἀπέκδυσις) would evoke a powerful, tangible picture of leaving an old condition behind entirely, much like removing and discarding a soiled or outdated piece of clothing. This makes Paul's spiritual application immediately vivid to his original audience.

ἀπόθεσις (apothesis, G595) — a putting away or laying aside; often used for ridding oneself of something (e.g., 1 Peter 3:21). ἀπέκδυσις emphasizes a stripping or peeling off, while ἀπόθεσις can imply a more general laying aside.

Word Details

Scripture References