ἀπολαμβάνω

I get back, receive back

Definition

The verb ἀπολαμβάνω primarily means 'to receive back' or 'to get back' something that was previously one's own, as seen in the parable of the prodigal son where the father receives his son back (Luke 15:27). It can also mean 'to receive as a due or deserved consequence,' such as receiving a reward (Luke 18:30) or, in a negative sense, receiving the just penalty for one's actions (Luke 23:41; Romans 1:27). In the middle voice, it takes on the sense of 'to take aside' or 'to separate privately,' as when Jesus takes a deaf man aside to heal him (Mark 7:33).

Biblical Usage

This word is used 11 times in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels of Luke and Mark, with single occurrences in Romans and Galatians. Its usage spans several contexts: receiving back a person or thing (Luke 15:27; Galatians 4:5), receiving a due reward or punishment (Luke 18:30; 23:41; Romans 1:27), and the middle-voice sense of taking someone aside privately (Mark 7:33). In Luke 6:34, it is used in the context of financial lending with the expectation of receiving back the full amount.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἀπό (apo, meaning 'from' or 'back') combined with the verb λαμβάνω (lambanō, meaning 'to take' or 'to receive'). Thus, the compound literally means 'to take from' or 'to receive back.' It is not from ἀ- (a negative prefix) as previously noted; that was an error. The core idea is of receiving something that originates from or returns to a source.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it touches on themes of divine justice, grace, and redemption. In Galatians 4:5, it describes believers 'receiving back' their status as adopted sons of God through Christ's redemption—a key soteriological concept. In parables and teachings (Luke 15:27; 18:30), it illustrates the principles of divine reward and the consequences of human actions, enriching our understanding of God's interaction with humanity. The middle-voice usage in Mark 7:33 also highlights Jesus' personal, intimate method of healing.

In the Greco-Roman world, the financial usage (Luke 6:34) reflects common lending practices where full repayment was socially and legally expected, contrasting with Jesus' call to lend without such expectation. The concept of 'receiving back' what is due also aligns with broader cultural notions of reciprocity and justice. The act of 'taking aside' (Mark 7:33) was a typical way to show special attention or privacy, which Jesus employs in his healing ministry.

λαμβάνω (lambanō, G2983) — the simpler root meaning 'to take' or 'to receive,' without the connotation of return. κομίζω (komizō, G2865) — often means 'to receive back' or 'to carry,' sometimes used for receiving a reward. ἀνταποδίδωμι (antapodidōmi, G467) — emphasizes giving back in return or repaying.

Word Details

Scripture References