ἀποβάλλω

I throw away from, throw overboard

Definition

The verb ἀποβάλλω means to throw away, cast off, or discard something, often with a sense of forceful rejection or abandonment. In its two New Testament occurrences, it carries the literal sense of physically throwing something away, as when Bartimaeus 'threw off' his cloak in Mark 10:50, and the figurative sense of discarding something valuable, as in the warning not to 'throw away' one's confidence in Hebrews 10:35. The word implies a deliberate, sometimes rash, act of separation from an object or quality.

Biblical Usage

ἀποβάλλω is used only twice in the New Testament, in two distinct contexts. In Mark 10:50, it describes Bartimaeus's immediate, physical action of casting aside his cloak to come to Jesus, highlighting his eager, unhindered response. In Hebrews 10:35, it is used metaphorically in an exhortation not to discard one's bold confidence (παρρησία), which has great reward. The usage thus spans a concrete, narrative action and an abstract, ethical warning.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἀπό (apo, meaning 'away from') and the verb βάλλω (ballō, meaning 'to throw' or 'to cast'). It is a compound verb literally meaning 'to throw away from.' The prefix ἀπό intensifies the sense of separation or removal inherent in the act of throwing.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant in its warning against apostasy or spiritual carelessness. In Hebrews 10:35, the command not to 'throw away' one's confidence underscores the voluntary nature of perseverance and the grave danger of abandoning faith under pressure. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of Mark 10:50 by contrasting Bartimaeus's positive 'casting aside' of a hindrance with the negative 'casting aside' of faith warned against in Hebrews.

In the cultural context, Bartimaeus's act of throwing aside his cloak (Mark 10:50) was significant. A cloak was often a person's most valuable outer garment, used for warmth, bedding, and as collateral. Casting it aside could represent leaving security behind or acting with urgent, single-minded focus. This adds depth to his demonstration of faith and willingness to come to Jesus unencumbered.

βάλλω (ballō, G906) — the simpler root meaning 'to throw' or 'cast,' without the inherent sense of 'away.' ἀποτίθημι (apotithēmi, G659) — means 'to put away' or 'lay aside,' often used for renouncing conduct (e.g., Ephesians 4:22), with less forceful connotation than 'throwing.'

Word Details

Scripture References