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G854 · Greek · New Testament
ἀφανισμός
Aphanismos
Noun, masculine
Disappearance, destruction, corruption

Definition

The Greek noun aphanismos comes from the verb aphanizoo (to cause to disappear, to disfigure) and means disappearance, destruction, or corruption — the state of being unseen or ruined. It appears once in the New Testament (Hebrews 8:13), describing the old covenant as "obsolete and aging" and "soon to disappear."

Usage & Theological Significance

The use of aphanismos in Hebrews 8:13 is part of the epistle's comprehensive argument that the Mosaic covenant was preparatory, not permanent. That which was "aging and obsolete" was drawing toward its aphanismos — its appointed end. This is not failure but fulfillment: the old covenant disappeared because the new and better covenant had arrived in Christ, its high priest, its mediator, and its sacrifice. What appears as loss (aphanismos) is actually completion.

Key Bible Verses

Hebrews 8:13 By calling this covenant "new," he has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and aging will soon disappear.
Matthew 6:19 Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.
Matthew 6:20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy.
1 Peter 1:24 "All people are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall."
Hebrews 7:18 The former regulation is set aside because it was weak and useless.

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