ἀποτάσσομαι

I withdraw from, take leave of, renounce, send away

Definition

ἀποτάσσομαι (apotassomai) is a verb meaning to take leave of, say farewell, or renounce. In its most common sense, it describes a formal or deliberate parting from people, as when Jesus took leave of the crowd to pray (Mark 6:46) or when Paul said farewell to believers (Acts 18:18, 21). In a stronger, more absolute sense, it means to renounce or give up something completely, as in the requirement to renounce all possessions to be a disciple (Luke 14:33). This dual meaning of a simple farewell versus a total renunciation is key to its biblical usage.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used six times in the New Testament, appearing in the Gospels, Acts, and one Pauline letter. It often depicts a decisive, intentional departure. In the Gospels, it frames the cost of discipleship, highlighting a potential conflict between earthly duties (like saying farewell to family, Luke 9:61) and total commitment. In Acts, it describes Paul's cordial yet determined partings from churches. The single use in 2 Corinthians 2:13 refers to Paul having no rest of spirit because he did not find Titus, using the word in the sense of taking leave from a situation.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἀπό (apo, meaning 'from' or 'away') and the verb τάσσω (tassō, G5021, meaning 'to arrange, appoint, or order'). Literally, it means 'to arrange oneself away from' or 'to set apart from.' This construction emphasizes a deliberate, ordered separation, which evolved into meanings ranging from a polite farewell to a complete renunciation.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it directly relates to the radical nature of Christian discipleship. Jesus uses it to define the total commitment required to follow him, which involves renouncing all possessions (Luke 14:33). It challenges believers to examine their attachments, framing discipleship not as an addition to life but as a fundamental reordering of priorities away from worldly security. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by clarifying the stark choice presented between earthly ties and allegiance to Christ.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, formal farewells (apotassomai) could be significant, public events, especially when parting for a long journey or potentially forever. The stronger sense of 'renounce' would have been understood in philosophical contexts, where disciples of a teacher were expected to leave behind previous commitments. Jesus' usage taps into this cultural understanding but radicalizes it, applying the concept of renunciation not just to philosophers but to all his followers regarding family and possessions.

ἀφίημι (aphiēmi, G863) — to send away, forgive, or leave; broader, less focused on formal separation. χωρίζω (chōrizō, G5563) — to separate, divide, or depart; often more spatial or relational, not necessarily a deliberate farewell. ἀπολύω (apolyō, G630) — to release, dismiss, or divorce; focuses on setting free from obligation or bond.

Word Details

Scripture References