ἐκκαθαίρω (ekkathairō)
ekkathairō
to cleanse
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb ekkathairō describes a process of thorough cleansing, specifically one that involves removing impurities from within. It combines the prefix ek, meaning "out," with kathairō, meaning "to cleanse." This construction emphasizes not just surface cleaning but a complete clearing out of what is unclean or unwanted.
In Scripture, this word appears in two distinct contexts that highlight its force. In 1 Corinthians 5:7, Paul urges believers to clean out the old yeast so they may become a new batch, using the metaphor of removing leaven from dough to illustrate spiritual purity. Similarly, 2 Timothy 2:21 speaks of cleansing oneself from certain things to be a vessel for honorable use, suggesting an active, deliberate removal of sin or error.
The word’s emphasis on internal purification distinguishes it from general terms for washing. It implies a decisive action that results in a state of readiness and holiness, making it particularly significant in passages dealing with moral integrity and communal purity.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word ekkathairō calls us to a thorough cleansing that goes beyond surface appearances. It combines the idea of removal with purification, suggesting that true holiness requires actively clearing out what does not belong. In our spiritual lives, this means we are invited to examine our hearts and remove habits, attitudes, or influences that hinder our connection with God.
Paul uses this concept in 1 Corinthians 5:7 when he urges believers to purge out the old yeast. This metaphor reminds us that just as a small amount of leaven affects the whole batch, sin can spread if left unchecked. By choosing to remove these impurities, we make room for the new life Christ offers.
Similarly, 2 Timothy 2:21 encourages us to cleanse ourselves from certain things so we may become vessels for honorable use. This is not about earning salvation but about preparing our hearts to serve God effectively. When we allow Him to purify us, we find ourselves ready for every good work He has planned.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- shall cleanse1×
- do cleanse out1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐκκαθάρῃ1×
- ἐκκαθάρατε1×
Key Verses
-
I Corinthians 5:7
Purge out the old yeast, that you may be a new lump, even as you are unleavened. For indeed Christ, our Passover, has been sacrificed in our place.
Paul uses ekkathairō here to command the removal of moral corruption within the church, linking it directly to Christ’s sacrifice as our Passover lamb.
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II Timothy 2:21
If anyone therefore purges himself from these, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, and suitable for the master’s use, prepared for every good work.
The verb describes an individual’s active choice to separate from sin, resulting in a life prepared and suitable for the Master’s use.