Bible Dictionary
Castaway
A castaway is one rejected as unapproved after testing. Paul used the term of being disqualified, while related passages speak of the reprobate and rejected.
Definition
A castaway is one rejected as unapproved after testing. The word comes from a term meaning to test or approve and is elsewhere translated “reprobate” or “rejected.”
Biblical Usage
Paul expressed concern that, after preaching to others, he himself might be a castaway—that is, rejected. The same word is used of those described as reprobate and of what is rejected.
Historical Background
“Castaway” is the King James Version rendering in one passage. The Revised Version and American Standard Revised Version use “rejected,” while other passages commonly use “reprobate” or “rejected.”
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Gr. adokimos, (1 Cor. 9:27), one regarded as unworthy (R.V., “rejected”); elsewhere rendered “reprobate” (2 Tim. 3:8, etc.); “rejected” (Heb. 6:8, etc.).
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>kast'-a-wa (adokimos, from dokimazo, "I test," "I approve after testing," hence, approved after being tested): This word is rendered "castaway" only in the King James Version: "I myself should be a castaway" ("rejected" the Revised Version (British and American), the American Standard Revised Version, 1Co 9:27). But the same word occurs a number of times usually translated "reprobate" (Ro 1:28; 2Co 13:5-7; 2Ti 3:8; Tit 1:16); "rejected" (Hebrews 6:8).</p>