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G657 · Greek · New Testament
ἀποτάσσομαι
Apotassomai
Verb
To Say Farewell / To Renounce / To Leave

Definition

The Greek verb apotassomai means to say farewell, to take leave of, or to renounce and give up. It combines apo- (away from) and tasso (to arrange/order), with the reflexive form meaning to arrange oneself away from — to detach oneself. Jesus uses it for the radical renunciation required of disciples.

Usage & Theological Significance

The theological weight of apotassomai is concentrated in Luke 14:33, where Jesus states: 'In the same way, those of you who do not give up [apotassomai] everything you have cannot be my disciples.' This use is shocking in context — Jesus demands a total renunciation of all competing attachments before discipleship is possible. The word also appears more gently when Paul says his farewells to churches (Acts 18:18, 21; 2 Corinthians 2:13). These two uses illuminate the full range: discipleship requires both the radical farewell to self-centered living and the tender fellowship of Christian community.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 14:33 In the same way, those of you who do not give up [apotassetai] everything you have cannot be my disciples.
Acts 18:18 Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. Then he left the brothers and sisters and sailed for Syria, with Priscilla and Aquila. Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Cenchreae because of a vow he had made.
Acts 18:21 But as he left, he promised, 'I will come back if it is God's will.' Then he set sail from Ephesus.
2 Corinthians 2:13 I still had no peace of mind, because I did not find my brother Titus there. So I said goodbye to them and went on to Macedonia.
Mark 6:46 After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray.

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