Strong’s Greek 660 (ἀποτινάσσω, apotinassō) pictures a swift, decisive shaking meant to remove every trace of an unwanted substance. In Scripture the gesture conveys complete separation—whether from ceremonial defilement, unbelief, or physical danger.

Old Testament Background

Dust consistently symbolizes uncleanness or judgment (Genesis 3:19; Isaiah 52:2). When first-century Jews returned from Gentile lands they sometimes shook the dust from their sandals to avoid bringing ritual impurity into Israel. Jesus adapts this cultural act to gospel preaching, converting it into a prophetic sign.

Occurrences in the New Testament

Luke 9:5 and Acts 28:5 contain the only occurrences of apotinassō:

• Luke 9:5 – Jesus instructs the Twelve: “If people do not welcome you, shake the dust off your feet when you leave their town, as a testimony against them.”
• Acts 28:5 – “But Paul shook the creature off into the fire and suffered no harm.”

In the Ministry of Jesus and the Twelve (Luke 9:5)

Shaking off dust serves as a visible witness that responsibility for rejecting the gospel now rests on the hearers, not the messengers. The disciples leave judgment with God (cf. Ezekiel 33:4-5). The sign is sober yet non-violent: it neither curses the town nor calls down wrath, but underscores accountability while freeing the missionaries from lingering obligation or bitterness.

In the Ministry of Paul (Acts 28:5)

On Malta a viper fastens on Paul’s hand. He “shook the creature off into the fire” and is unharmed. The action dramatizes divine protection promised in Mark 16:18 and reinforces Luke’s theme that nothing can thwart God’s purpose for His servant. Symbolically, the apostle discards both serpent and superstition, distancing himself from pagan fears and pressing on toward Rome.

Spiritual Implications

1. Separation from Unbelief: Believers disengage from obstinate rejection without harboring resentment (2 Timothy 3:5).
2. Freedom for Ongoing Mission: By shaking off dust, workers remain spiritually unencumbered and emotionally whole, ready for the next assignment (Acts 13:51 uses 1621, a cognate, in the same sense).
3. Assurance of God’s Care: Paul’s deliverance illustrates that obedience places the servant within the sphere of God’s preserving power (Psalm 91:13).

Applications for Christian Witness

• Faithful Proclamation: Present the gospel plainly; rejection cannot be allowed to paralyze obedience.
• Gracious Detachment: Leave ultimate judgment with the Lord (Romans 12:19).
• Persevering Confidence: Spiritual “vipers” may strike, but God’s calling remains secure (Philippians 1:6).

Related Biblical Themes

Dust-Shaking: Matthew 10:14; Mark 6:11; Acts 13:51 (synonym).

Serpent-Defeat: Genesis 3:15; Luke 10:19; Romans 16:20.

Prophetic Signs: Ezekiel 4–5; Acts 21:11.

Historical Reception

Early Christian writers (e.g., Tertullian, Origen) cited Luke 9:5 to defend missionary mobility: once the gospel was spurned, servants were free to move on. Medieval commentators emphasized humility—missionaries neither retaliate nor compromise but hand the matter to God.

Summary

Apotinassō encapsulates the missionary’s resolve: unyielding in proclamation, undefiled by rejection, undaunted by danger. Whether dust or viper, whatever hinders the advance of the gospel must be shaken off so that Christ’s messengers can press forward with joy and confidence.