(from α, and φαίνω, "I speak,") in the sceptic philosophy, denotes a state of doubt, wherein a person not knowing what to determine on, it is best for him to be silent. In this sense, ἀφάσις stands opposed to πληθύς, under which are included both affirmation and negation.

APHÉK, the name of several cities mentioned in Scripture. 1. Aphek in the tribe of Judah, where the Philistines encamped when the ark was brought from Shiloh, which was taken by them in battle, 1 Sam. iv. 1, 2, &c. It is thought to be the same with Aphekah mentioned in Joth. xv. 53. 2. Aphek in the valley of Jezreel, where the Philistines encamped while Saul and his army were near Jezreel, upon the mountains of Gilboa, 1 Sam. xxix. 7, &c. 3. Aphek a city belonging to the tribe of Asher, near the country of the Sidonians; (Joth. xix. 35. and xiii. 4.) 4. Aphek a city of Syria, one of the principal in Benhadad's kingdom, near which the battle was fought between Ahad and Benhadad, wherein the Syrians were worsted; and whereof, as they retreated with precipitation into the city, the walls fell upon them, and crushed in pieces 27,000, (1 Kings xx. 26, et seq.) This city lay between Heliopolis and Byblus.

APHÉLIUM, or APHELION, in Astronomy, is that point in any planet's orbit, in which it is farthest distant from the sun, being that end of the greater axis of the elliptical orbit of the planet most remote from the focus where the sun is.