περικάθαρμα

περικάθαρμα, ατος, τό fr. περικαθαίρω=‘cleanse all around’ or ‘on all sides’; that which is removed as a result of a thorough cleansing, dirt, refuse, off-scouring, also as a designation of the ‘off-scouring’ of humanity (Epict. 3, 22, 78; Vi. Aesopi G 14 P.; cp. 1QH 5:21). Since purification is achieved by the removal of the περικάθαρμα, the word can take on the mng. propitiatory offering, ransom (Pr 21:18). ὡς περικαθάρματα τοῦ κόσμου ἐγενήθημεν we have become like the off-scourings of the world 1 Cor 4:13. But since π. is pl. in contrast to the foll. περίψημα (q.v., as well as κάθαρμα) it has been proposed to transl. (s. earlier edd. of this lexicon and Spicq. III 94f) scapegoats for the world. On the other hand, the expr. is similar to τὰ γὰρ λύματα καὶ καθάρματα τῆ χώρα ὅλη Jos., Bell. 4, 241, a description of unsavory characters, and the initial ὡ suggests the perception, wholly negative, that Paul’s activity generates in the ‘world’.—DELG s.v. καθαρός. M-M. TW. Spicq.