ἀπομάσσω (apomassō)
apomassō
to wipe off
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb apomassō describes the physical act of wiping something off or cleaning it by rubbing. It is a rare word in the New Testament, appearing only once in Luke 10:11. In this passage, Jesus instructs his disciples to shake the dust from their feet as a testimony against unresponsive towns. The text specifies that they should wipe off (apomassō) the dust, using a term that implies a deliberate, manual removal of debris.
Etymologically, the word combines the prefix apo, meaning "from" or "off," with masso, which relates to kneading, squeezing, or handling. This root suggests a tactile action involving friction rather than a simple rinsing or sweeping. The middle voice form used in Luke indicates that the subjects perform the action for their own sake, removing the dust from themselves as they depart.
While similar words exist for washing or cleansing, apomassō focuses on the removal of surface particles through touch. Its singular occurrence highlights a specific cultural practice of shaking off impurity or disassociation. The choice of this verb emphasizes the tangible nature of the disciples' separation from those who reject their message.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word apomassō describes a simple, physical act: wiping dust off your feet. In Luke 10:11, Jesus tells His disciples to shake off the dust of a town that rejects their message. This was not just about cleanliness; it was a clear sign of separation and a testimony against unresponsiveness.
For you today, this word reminds us that our mission is tangible. We share hope with our hands and voices. When people turn away, we do not need to carry their rejection as a burden. Instead, we can leave it behind, trusting God with the results. Your work is to be faithful; the outcome belongs to Him.
This gentle release allows you to move forward without bitterness. It frees your heart from the weight of those who refuse to listen. You are invited to trust that God’s Kingdom advances in ways you may not see immediately. Peace comes when you stop carrying what was never yours to hold.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- we wipe off1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀπομασσόμεθα1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 10:11
‘Even the dust from your city that clings to us, we wipe off against you. Nevertheless know this, that God’s Kingdom has come near to you.’
This verse uniquely uses apomassō to describe the deliberate act of wiping dust from the feet as a tangible sign of separation from unresponsive towns.