ἀπολύω

I release, let go, send away, divorce

Definition

ἀπολύω primarily means 'to release' or 'to set free,' often in a legal or physical sense, such as releasing a prisoner (Luke 23:22) or dismissing a crowd (Matthew 14:15). In a marital context, it specifically means 'to divorce,' carrying significant legal and social weight, as seen in Jesus' teachings on divorce in Matthew 5:31-32 and 19:3-9. In the middle voice, it can mean 'to depart' or 'to take one's leave,' as when Jesus sends his disciples away (Matthew 14:22) or when someone leaves a place voluntarily.

Biblical Usage

This verb appears 63 times in the New Testament, predominantly in the Gospels (especially Matthew and Luke) and Acts. It is used in various contexts: dismissing crowds (Matthew 14:15, 15:23), releasing prisoners (Luke 23:16-22, Acts 3:13), and discussing divorce (Matthew 1:19, 5:31-32, 19:3-9). The middle voice usage for departure is also common, as in Luke 2:29 where Simeon asks to be 'dismissed' in peace. The pattern shows it is a practical term for release or separation, whether physical, legal, or relational.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἀπό (apo, meaning 'from' or 'away') and the verb λύω (lyō, meaning 'to loose' or 'to release'). Thus, ἀπολύω literally means 'to loose from' or 'to release away.' This compound form emphasizes a sense of separation or setting free. Cognates include ἄφεσις (aphesis, G859, 'forgiveness' or 'release') and λύτρον (lytron, G3083, 'ransom'), sharing the root idea of loosing.

Semantic Range

ἀπολύω is theologically significant in discussions of divorce, where Jesus redefines its meaning and limits, contrasting Mosaic permission with God's original design for marriage (Matthew 19:3-9). It also appears in narratives of Jesus' trial, highlighting themes of justice and release, as Pilate seeks to 'release' Jesus (Luke 23:20) but the crowd demands Barabbas instead. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by clarifying the legal and relational gravity in passages about divorce and freedom.

In first-century Jewish and Roman culture, divorce (using ἀπολύω) was a male-privileged legal action, often done by issuing a certificate of dismissal (Deuteronomy 24:1). This contrasts with modern no-fault divorce; it was a formal, unilateral act with serious social and economic consequences for the divorced wife. The word's use for releasing prisoners reflects Roman judicial authority, where a governor like Pilate had power to grant pardon or release during festivals.

ἀφίημι (aphiēmi, G863) — often 'to forgive' or 'to leave,' focusing on remission or abandonment, not necessarily formal release. ἐξαποστέλλω (exapostellō, G1821) — 'to send out' or 'dispatch,' emphasizing mission or purpose, not mere dismissal. λύω (lyō, G3089) — 'to loose' or 'untie,' a broader term for unbinding without the 'away' sense of ἀπολύω.

Word Details

Scripture References