περικάθαρμα
perikátharma
G4027 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
Something removed or scraped off as worthless or undesirable; specifically, what is cast away as refuse, off-scouring, or dregs. Figuratively, a person or group regarded as the lowest, most despised, or expendable segment of society. The term conveys the idea of that which is ritually, physically, or morally discarded as unclean or base. In extended usage, can denote someone willingly accepting shame or disgrace for the sake of others.
Semantic Range
what is removed as waste, refuse, off-scouring, scapegoat, the most despised; figuratively—a person regarded as the lowest or most abject, one who takes on disgrace for others
Root / Etymology
From περί (around, about) and κάθαρμα (that which is cleansed away, refuse, off-scouring), itself from καθαρίζω (to cleanse, purify). The prefix περί intensifies the sense, indicating thorough removal of what is considered impure or worthless.
Historical & Contextual Notes
The term περικάθαρμα is very rare, appearing in extant Greek literature notably in philosophical and religious contexts but with limited attestation. In Hellenistic usage, it could refer to ritual or symbolic acts in which certain individuals were treated as 'scapegoats' or designated for removal to cleanse a community, often during times of crisis. In the Septuagint and the New Testament (notably 1 Corinthians 4:13), it is used metaphorically, with Paul characterizing himself and fellow apostles as the 'off-scouring' or 'refuse' of the world—aligning with imagery of social or ritual outcasts. Earlier classical Greek uses the related κάθαρμα for both literal refuse and those sacrificed or exiled for communal atonement. English translations ('filth,' 'scum,' 'off-scouring') narrow the sense; the original term encompasses both a physical and highly figurative, social dimension.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from a compound of περί and καθαίρω; something cleaned off all around, i.e. refuse (figuratively):--filth.
Root Family
περικάθαρμα (perikatharma) — to remove, to cleanse, refuse, to discard
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4027-01 |
περικαθάρματα | perikatharmata | N NOM N PL |
the scum | thoroughly-scraped-off refuse | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 total occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4027-01 |
1 Corinthians 4:13 | περικαθάρματα | perikatharmata | N NOM N PL |
the scum | thoroughly-scraped-off refuse |