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G631 · Greek · New Testament
ἀπομάσσω
apomasso
Verb
To wipe off / Shake off / Clean off

Definition

A verb meaning 'to wipe off,' 'to shake off,' or 'to clean something away.' Used in Luke 10:11 where Jesus instructs the disciples to wipe even the dust off their feet as testimony against unresponsive towns.

Usage & Theological Significance

Apomasso (G631) appears in Luke 10:11: 'Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet we wipe off (apomassometha) against you.' This is the unique Lucan form of the 'shake off the dust' instruction (cf. Matthew 10:14 uses ektinasso). The gesture was a Jewish custom when returning from Gentile territory -- removing Gentile 'uncleanness' from one's feet. Jesus inverts it: His disciples wipe off the dust of Jewish towns that rejected the Kingdom message, signifying those towns' rejection is on their own heads. Theologically, this act of dust-wiping is not vindictive -- it is a solemn prophetic sign of accountability and eschatological warning.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 10:11 Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet we wipe off (apomassometha) against you. Nevertheless know this, that the kingdom of God has come near.
Matthew 10:14 And if anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet when you leave that house or town.
Acts 13:51 But they shook off the dust from their feet against them and went to Iconium.
Acts 18:6 And when they opposed and reviled him, he shook out his garments and said to them, 'Your blood be on your own heads! I am innocent. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.'
Ezekiel 33:4 Then if anyone hears the sound of the trumpet but does not take warning, and the sword comes and takes him away, his blood shall be upon his own head.

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