ἐκπτύω

I spit upon, disdain, reject, loathe

Definition

ἐκπτύω literally means 'to spit out,' but in its figurative usage, it conveys strong rejection, disdain, or loathing. In its sole New Testament occurrence in Galatians 4:14, Paul uses it to describe the opposite reaction: the Galatians did *not* 'spit out' or despise him despite his physical ailment. The word implies a visceral, physical repulsion that is then applied metaphorically to social or spiritual contempt. While the action of spitting could be a ritual act in some ancient contexts, here the emphasis is on the emotional response of utter rejection.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used only once in the New Testament, in Galatians 4:14. Paul employs it to highlight the extraordinary kindness the Galatians showed him when he first preached to them. He states that his 'bodily condition was a trial to you,' yet they did not 'spit out' or scorn him. The usage is entirely figurative, describing a social and personal rejection, not a literal act of spitting.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐκ (ek), meaning 'out,' and the verb πτύω (ptyō), meaning 'to spit.' It is a compound verb that intensifies the base action to mean 'to spit out' or 'to spit forth.' The root πτύω is related to words for saliva or spittle, giving the term its concrete, physical foundation.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights the nature of Christian acceptance and hospitality. In Galatians 4:14, Paul contrasts the expected human reaction of contempt (ἐκπτύω) for a sickly, perhaps repulsive-looking messenger with the grace-filled reception he received, which he attributes to their receiving him 'as an angel of God, as Christ Jesus.' Understanding this strong Greek term deepens our appreciation for the radical, counter-cultural love and acceptance that should characterize the Christian community, mirroring how Christ receives us.

In the ancient Mediterranean world, spitting could be a superstitious act to ward off evil or bad luck, often directed at people considered ill-omened, like the sick or disabled. It was a powerful gesture of social exclusion and contempt. Paul's use of this term would have immediately conveyed to his readers the depth of potential revulsion his 'bodily condition' might have provoked, making the Galatians' loving acceptance all the more remarkable.

ἀποπτύω (apoptyō, G629) — A near synonym also meaning 'to spit out,' used in Mark 7:33 in a literal, physical sense. ἐξουθενέω (exoutheneō, G1848) — 'to despise, treat with contempt'; focuses more on the attitude of considering someone as nothing. καταφρονέω (kataphroneō, G2706) — 'to think down upon, despise'; emphasizes a mental judgment of scorn.

Word Details

Scripture References