ἀποτρέπω

I turn away from, shun

Definition

The verb ἀποτρέπω means to turn away from, avert, or shun something or someone. It carries the sense of actively avoiding or rejecting something, often with a deliberate, decisive motion of turning aside. In its single New Testament occurrence in 2 Timothy 3:5, it describes the action believers must take toward people who have a form of godliness but deny its power—they are to 'turn away from' such individuals. The word implies a complete and intentional separation, not merely a passive disregard.

Biblical Usage

ἀποτρέπω is used only once in the New Testament, in 2 Timothy 3:5. In this context, the Apostle Paul instructs Timothy to actively 'turn away from' or shun people who are hypocritical in their faith. The usage is imperative and moral, commanding a decisive action of avoidance in response to spiritual danger and false piety. It fits within a list of vices and a warning about difficult times in the last days.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἀπό (apo, meaning 'away from') and the verb τρέπω (trepō, meaning 'to turn'). The compound literally means 'to turn away from.' The root τρέπω conveys the basic idea of turning or changing direction. Thus, ἀποτρέπω intensifies this into a turning away for the purpose of avoidance or rejection.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it defines a necessary boundary for Christian community and personal holiness. It underscores that genuine faith requires not only embracing truth but also actively rejecting its counterfeits. The command to 'turn away from' those with a form of godliness without power (2 Timothy 3:5) highlights the New Testament's serious concern for doctrinal and ethical integrity, protecting the church from corruption. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by emphasizing the proactive, sometimes confrontational, stance required to preserve sound teaching.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of 'turning away' could carry social and philosophical weight, such as rejecting false teachings or dissociating from disreputable persons. For Paul's audience, the command would resonate with philosophical traditions that advocated avoiding bad influences. However, Paul gives it a distinctly Christian framing, tying the action to the specific danger of hollow religiosity that denies the transformative power of the Gospel.

ἐκκλίνω (ekklinō, G1578) — to deviate or bend away, often from a path or standard; a more general turning aside. στρέφω (strephō, G4762) — to turn, twist, or change; a broader term for physical or metaphorical turning without the inherent 'away from' prefix. φεύγω (pheugō, G5343) — to flee, escape; emphasizes rapid retreat from danger rather than a deliberate turning aside.

Word Details

Scripture References