the Greek word "apo" is the obvious tie between the two words. "apo" means away, apart, separate, without.
apostle comes from the Greek "apostolos" "apo" + "stellin" which means one who is sent out or away. (by the way, the word apostle is related to the words like postal. gives a whole new meaning to the idea of "going postal" huh?). although it is interesting that "stole" means robe in Greek -- makes me wonder if there is an ideological tie in to the robes or mantle of the priesthood. anyway that is my greek-fest kicking in, sorry, back to the point.
apostasy comes from "apo" + "stasis" meaning standing away or withdrawing. so while there are ties between the two words, the meanings are actually opposites. and apostle is sent out by someone, (not by the way, strictly limited to Christians), and an apostate deliberately stands apart or removes themselves from a group or belief system, (again not necessarily limited to Christianity). Both words existed and were used long before Christianity was even a blip on the radar, to some degree, although until Christianity became widespread, Jews were pretty much the only religion and culture that worshiped one God exclusively, so apostles were far more common than apostates in the ancient world.
i love Greek geekiness!
hope this helps.
meanwhile, back on the ranch. . . life is crazy busy and completely chaotic right now. i am so incredibly ready for spring! we have become entrenched in a seemingly unending cycle of winter sickness, each of us getting something icky and sharing it with the whole family. fun!
i have to tell you that valentines day was lots of fun! kindergarten parties are amazing! i think that all teenagers should have to host one -- it would be a great deterrent for unplanned pregnancy. i think i walked out of the room with crossed eyes and a distinct limp. how can somebody so little be so hard on toes?
still, their happy little faces and pre-sugar coma bliss are worth it.
hope your day has plenty of bliss and maybe even a little sugar :)
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I was so excited to get on and see that the question of the day had been answered! Yay for Greek geekiness!!! And Yay for Christi knowing the answers yet again! I love it! As for the hosting of a kinder party..... not a bad idea really. Except for on any given day you might not be able to tell which ones were younger.
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