ἀποστυγέω

I detest, abhor

Definition

The verb ἀποστυγέω (apostygeō) means to detest, abhor, or utterly reject something with strong moral and emotional revulsion. It denotes a decisive turning away from what is evil, wicked, or detestable. In its sole New Testament occurrence in Romans 12:9, it is used in the command to 'abhor what is evil,' framing this abhorrence as the necessary counterpart to sincere love for what is good. The word implies a complete and active moral separation, not merely a passive dislike.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Romans 12:9, within a list of ethical exhortations for Christian living. The context is Paul's instruction on genuine, transformed love, where 'abhorring what is evil' is presented as the essential negative action that must accompany the positive action of 'holding fast to what is good.' Its placement here gives it a strong ethical and communal focus, defining the character of authentic Christian love.

Etymology

Derived from the prefix ἀπό (apo, meaning 'away from') and a root related to στυγέω (stygeō, meaning 'to hate' or 'to regard with horror'). The compound form intensifies the sense of hatred into a decisive, active rejection—to hate something so much that one turns completely away from it. It carries a stronger connotation than more common words for dislike.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it defines the proper Christian posture toward evil. It teaches that authentic love (ἀγάπη, agapē) is not morally neutral but requires a conscious, vigorous rejection of evil. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of Romans 12:9 by showing that Christian ethics involve both passionate attachment to good and passionate detachment from evil, framing both as acts of the will integral to a life of worship.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of moral abhorrence was present in philosophical discussions of virtue and vice. For Paul's audience, this command would have contrasted with cultural attitudes that often tolerated or participated in various social evils. The call to actively 'abhor' evil would have signified a clear, counter-cultural boundary for the Christian community.

μισέω (miseō, G3404) — a more general term for 'to hate,' not always with the same connotation of active moral rejection and turning away. ἐβδελύσσομαι (bdelyssomai, G948) — to feel disgust or loathing, often used for idolatry or abominations, sharing the sense of revulsion but sometimes in a more ritual or ceremonial context.

Word Details

Scripture References