ἀπόθεσις
a putting off, a laying down
Definition
ἀπόθεσις refers to the act of putting off, removing, or laying something aside. In its two New Testament occurrences, it specifically denotes a decisive removal or setting aside. In 1 Peter 3:21, it describes the 'putting away' or removal of the filth of the flesh through baptism, signifying a spiritual cleansing. In 2 Peter 1:14, it refers to the 'laying aside' of the physical body at death, as Peter speaks of the imminent departure of his earthly tent.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only twice in the New Testament, both times in the General Epistles. In 1 Peter 3:21, it is used metaphorically in a sacramental context concerning baptism. In 2 Peter 1:14, it is used literally in an eschatological context concerning physical death. Both uses convey a definitive act of removal or departure.
Etymology
Derived from the preposition ἀπό (apo, meaning 'away from') and the noun θέσις (thesis, meaning 'a placing' or 'setting'). It is a compound word literally meaning 'a putting away from' or 'a removal.' It is related to the verb ἀποτίθημι (apotithēmi, G659), which means 'to put off' or 'lay aside.'
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it connects the concepts of sacramental cleansing and physical mortality. In 1 Peter 3:21, it underscores baptism not as mere physical washing but as an appeal to God for a good conscience through the resurrection of Jesus Christ—a spiritual 'putting away' of sin. In 2 Peter 1:14, it frames death not as an end but as the 'laying aside' of the temporary earthly body, pointing toward the believer's hope and inheritance. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading by highlighting the decisive, intentional action involved in both spiritual renewal and physical death for the believer.
In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of 'putting off' or 'laying aside' (ἀπόθεσις) was used in various contexts, from changing clothes to discarding old tools. The New Testament authors use this common cultural concept to convey profound spiritual truths—transitioning from an old life of sin to a new life in Christ (like changing garments) and viewing the body as a temporary dwelling to be shed.
ἀποτίθημι (apotithēmi, G659) — the verb form meaning 'to put off, lay aside'; used for putting off old conduct (Ephesians 4:22, Colossians 3:8).
Word Details
How this works
Definitions are from the Dodson Greek-English Lexicon, a concise public-domain resource suitable for introductory word study. Brief glosses are supplemented by STEPBible TBESG data (CC BY 4.0). For advanced research, standard scholarly references include BDAG (Danker, 3rd ed.) and LSJ.
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