ἐξολοθρεύω

I destroy utterly, annihilate

Definition

ἐξολοθρεύω means to destroy utterly, annihilate, or exterminate. It conveys complete and final destruction, often implying the removal of something from existence. In the New Testament, it appears only in Acts 3:23, where it describes the fate of anyone who does not listen to the prophet like Moses: they will be 'utterly destroyed' from among the people. This usage aligns with the Septuagint's (the Greek Old Testament) employment of the term for divine judgment, such as in Deuteronomy 18:19, from which Peter quotes, indicating a severe, divinely sanctioned removal.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used only once in the New Testament, in Acts 3:23. Here, the Apostle Peter quotes from Deuteronomy 18:19, using ἐξολοθρεύω to warn of the consequence for rejecting God's appointed prophet. The context is one of prophetic warning and covenant consequence, mirroring its usage in the Greek Old Testament for severe divine judgments, like the destruction of nations or individuals who oppose God's will (e.g., Deuteronomy 6:15 in the Septuagint).

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐξ (ex, meaning 'out of' or 'utterly') combined with the verb ὀλοθρεύω (olothreyō, meaning 'to destroy' or 'ruin'). ὀλοθρεύω itself is related to ὄλλυμι (ollymi, G622), a common verb for destruction. Thus, ἐξολοθρεύω intensifies the sense to mean 'to destroy out of existence' or 'to annihilate completely.'

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it underscores the seriousness of God's judgment and the consequences of rejecting His revelation. In Acts 3:23, it highlights the Mosaic covenant's warning, which Peter applies to Jesus as the ultimate Prophet. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by emphasizing the finality and completeness of divine judgment against unbelief, connecting New Testament teaching with Old Testament covenant warnings.

In its original setting, 'utter destruction' often had covenantal and communal implications. Within Israel, being 'destroyed from among the people' (as in Acts 3:23) meant being cut off from the covenant community and its protections, a severe fate. This concept differs from a modern, purely individualistic view of punishment, as it involved social and spiritual excision from God's people.

ἀπόλλυμι (apollymi, G622) — a more general term for destroy or perish, often with a sense of loss or ruin. ὀλοθρεύω (olothreyō, G3645) — the root verb meaning to destroy, but without the intensive prefix ἐξ. ἐξαλείφω (exaleiphō, G1813) — to wipe out or blot out, often used metaphorically (e.g., of sins).

Word Details

Scripture References