ἀπάγω

I lead, carry, take away

Definition

The verb ἀπάγω primarily means 'to lead away' or 'to take away,' often implying movement from one place to another, frequently with a sense of compulsion or authority. In a literal sense, it describes the forcible taking of someone, such as the arrest and leading away of Jesus to the high priest (Matthew 26:57) and to Pilate (Matthew 27:2). In a metaphorical sense, found in Matthew 7:13-14, it describes being 'led away' onto the broad way that leads to destruction, conveying the idea of being carried along by destructive influences. Thus, the word encompasses both physical removal and spiritual or moral diversion.

Biblical Usage

ἀπάγω is used 16 times in the New Testament, predominantly in the Gospels' passion narratives to describe the arrest and trial proceedings of Jesus (e.g., Matthew 26:57; Mark 14:53; 15:16). It also appears in the context of leading someone to execution (Matthew 27:31). Its most theologically significant usage is in Jesus' teaching about the two gates, where it metaphorically describes people being 'led away' to destruction (Matthew 7:13-14). The word consistently carries a connotation of being taken under the control or direction of another, often against one's will or better judgment.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἀπό (apo, meaning 'away from') and the verb ἄγω (agō, G71, meaning 'to lead' or 'to bring'). The compound literally means 'to lead away from.' This construction clearly conveys the core idea of movement away from a point of origin, which is reflected in all its biblical usages.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights the theme of spiritual destiny and agency. In Matthew 7:13-14, it frames the critical choice between two paths: one where people are passively 'led away' to destruction and the other where they must actively enter the narrow gate to life. This contrasts human susceptibility to being led astray by the world with the deliberate, difficult choice required for salvation. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of the passion narratives by emphasizing Jesus being 'led away' not merely as a historical detail, but as a fulfillment of his submission to the Father's will and the world's rejection.

In its cultural setting, 'leading away' often had judicial or militaristic overtones, associated with arrest by authorities or taking captives in war. The use in the Gospels would immediately evoke images of Roman or temple guard procedures. The metaphorical use in Matthew 7 would resonate with imagery of being carried along by a crowd or popular opinion, a powerful warning in a collectivist culture.

ἄγω (agō, G71) — A more general term for 'to lead' or 'bring,' without the inherent 'away from' direction of ἀπάγω. ἀναφέρω (anapherō, G399) — Means 'to lead up' or 'to offer up,' often used in sacrificial contexts (e.g., Hebrews 7:27). πλανάω (planaō, G4105) — Specifically means 'to lead astray' or 'deceive,' focusing on the error rather than the movement (e.g., Matthew 24:4).

Word Details

Scripture References