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G673 · Greek · New Testament
ἀποχωρίζω
Apochorizo
Verb
To Separate / To Part / To Be Torn Apart

Definition

The Greek verb apochorizo means to separate, to part from, or to be torn apart. It combines apo- (away) and chorizo (to separate/divide). In the New Testament, it appears in two contexts: the 'sharp disagreement' that separated Paul and Barnabas, and the cosmic separation described in Revelation.

Usage & Theological Significance

Apochorizo appears in Acts 15:39 to describe the painful split between Paul and Barnabas over John Mark: 'They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted [apochoristhenai] company.' This is one of the New Testament's most honest moments — two great missionaries, both right in their ways, unable to agree and going separate directions. Yet God redeemed even this separation: Paul and Silas went one direction, Barnabas and Mark another — two missions instead of one. In Revelation 6:14, the sky 'receded like a scroll, rolling up' (apechoristhe) at the breaking of the sixth seal — cosmic separation at the end of the age.

Key Bible Verses

Acts 15:39 They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted [apochoristhenai] company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus.
Revelation 6:14 The heavens receded like a scroll being rolled up, and every mountain and island was removed from its place.
Romans 8:35 Who shall separate [chorizo] us from the love of Christ?
Romans 8:39 Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God.
Genesis 13:9 Is not the whole land before you? Let's part company. If you go to the left, I'll go to the right; if you go to the right, I'll go to the left.

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