περικάθαρμα

refuse, filth

Definition

περικάθαρμα refers to something that is scraped off or washed away, specifically the filth or refuse that is removed during a thorough cleaning. In a literal sense, it denotes the scum or dregs that are discarded. Figuratively, it was used to describe people considered the lowest and most contemptible outcasts of society—those 'scraped off' and cast aside. In the New Testament, this figurative sense is powerfully employed by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 4:13, where he describes himself and the apostles as being treated as 'the scum of the earth, the refuse of all things.'

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in 1 Corinthians 4:13. Paul uses it in a list of harsh descriptions to illustrate how the world views the apostles. The context is Paul's defense of his apostolic ministry against critics in Corinth, where he contrasts the world's dishonor with God's approval. The usage is entirely metaphorical, applying a term for physical filth to describe social and spiritual rejection.

Etymology

The word is a compound noun from the preposition περί (peri), meaning 'around' or 'about,' and the root καθήρω (kathērō), meaning 'to cleanse' or 'to purify.' It is related to the noun κάθαρμα (katharma, G2502), which means 'a cleansing' or 'that which is cleansed away' (i.e., filth). Thus, περικάθαρμα intensifies the idea to mean 'that which is cleansed or scraped off all around'—the ultimate refuse.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it encapsulates the paradox of the Christian life and apostolic calling. Paul embraces the label of 'refuse' to demonstrate that true strength and honor are found in Christ-centered weakness and suffering (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). It highlights the theme of reversal in God's kingdom, where the world's despised are chosen by God (1 Corinthians 1:27-28). Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by revealing the depth of the apostles' identification with Christ in His humiliation for the sake of the gospel.

In the Greco-Roman world, 'perikatharma' could refer to the worthless scum or dregs removed in cleaning. Culturally, it was also used as a term of extreme contempt for people. Some ancient sources suggest it could refer to criminals or societal rejects who were sacrificed in pagan rituals to purify a city, making them literal 'scapegoats.' This dark cultural backdrop makes Paul's application of the term to himself and fellow apostles even more shocking and vivid, emphasizing total societal rejection.

κάθαρμα (katharma, G2502) — A simpler term for 'cleansing' or 'filth,' without the intensive 'peri-' prefix. ἀποκάθαρμα (apokatharma, G2503) — Another compound meaning 'offscouring,' very similar in meaning and also used figuratively for despised persons.

Word Details

Scripture References