ἀπολαμβάνω (apolambanō)
apolambanō
to get back
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 10 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb apolambanō means to receive something that is properly one’s due, often with a sense of taking back what was lost or owed. It appears in contexts where justice or promise is fulfilled, such as the laborer receiving his wage (Luke 10:7) or the prodigal son being welcomed home (Luke 15:27). The prefix apo suggests a return or recovery, distinguishing it from simple receipt by emphasizing that the object belongs to the receiver.
This word carries theological weight in passages about divine justice and reward. In Romans 1:27, Paul uses it to describe how those who reject God receive back the consequences of their actions. Similarly, Luke 6:34 contrasts human lending with divine reciprocity, showing that apolambanō can imply retributive balance. Translators often render it "receive" or "get back," though these English terms may lack the nuance of rightful claim inherent in the Greek.
Its usage spans both positive and negative scenarios: receiving blessings as promised (Galatians 4:5) or facing judgment for sin (2 John 8). By focusing on what is rightfully received, apolambanō underscores themes of fairness and accountability throughout Scripture. This dual nature reflects its versatility while maintaining a consistent core meaning tied to entitlement and restitution.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word apolambanō speaks of receiving what is rightly yours. It carries the sense of taking back something that belongs to you, whether it is a wage owed for labor or the fullness of a promise kept. In our daily lives, we often feel like we are giving without getting anything in return, but this term reminds us that God keeps score with perfect fairness. He does not forget the work of your hands or the sacrifices you make in faith.
When Scripture uses this word, it highlights both justice and grace. Sometimes it describes receiving consequences for wrong choices, a sobering reminder of accountability. Other times, it points to the joy of restoration, like a lost family member returning home safe. In either case, it assures us that nothing is lost in God’s economy. What you have given or endured will not vanish; it has weight and value in His sight.
This understanding brings comfort to those who feel overlooked. You are not serving in vain. Whether you are waiting for a breakthrough or reflecting on past struggles, the promise stands that you will receive what is due. It is an invitation to trust that God’s justice is balanced by His love, and that every faithful step counts toward a future reward.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 10 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- you will receive1×
- you may receive.1×
- you did fully receive1×
- we may receive.1×
- we are receiving;1×
- they may receive1×
- receiving.1×
- may receive back1×
- he has received.1×
- having taken away1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀπέλαβες1×
- ἀπέλαβεν.1×
- ἀπολήμψεσθε1×
- ἀπολάβῃ1×
- ἀπολάβωσιν1×
- ἀπολάβωμεν.1×
- ἀπολάβητε.1×
- ἀπολαμβάνοντες.¶1×
- ἀπολαμβάνομεν·1×
- ἀπολαβόμενος1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 15:27
He said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has received him back safe and healthy.’
This verse shows the word used for the joyful restoration of the prodigal son, emphasizing recovery of what was lost.
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Romans 1:27
Likewise also the men, leaving the natural function of the woman, burned in their lust toward one another, men doing what is inappropriate with men, and receiving in themselves the due penalty of their error.
Here the term describes receiving the natural consequences of rejecting God, highlighting the theme of just retribution.
-
Colossians 3:24
knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.
Paul uses this word to assure believers they will receive their inheritance from the Lord, linking service to divine reward.
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Luke 6:34
If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive back as much.
This occurrence contrasts human lending with divine reciprocity, showing that God ensures a return for those who act in faith.