ἀποχωρέω

I go away, depart

Definition

The verb ἀποχωρέω means to depart, go away, or withdraw from a place or person. It carries a sense of physical separation, often implying a deliberate or definitive move away from something. In Matthew 7:23, Jesus uses it to describe a final, judicial departure: 'I never knew you; depart from me.' In Luke 9:39, it describes a demon's temporary withdrawal from a person, indicating a cessation of attack. In Acts 13:13, it narrates John Mark's physical departure from Paul and Barnabas's missionary journey.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used only three times in the New Testament, each in a distinct context. In Matthew 7:23, it is used in a solemn, eschatological judgment scene. In Luke 9:39, it describes a medical/spiritual phenomenon in a healing narrative. In Acts 13:13, it is used in straightforward historical narration of a travel decision. The pattern shows it can describe physical, spiritual, and relational departures, often with a note of finality or significant consequence.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἀπό (apo, meaning 'away from') and the verb χωρέω (chōreō, meaning 'to make room, go, withdraw'). The compound emphasizes motion away from a point of origin. It is related to χώρα (chōra, 'country, space'), conveying the idea of moving into a separate space or territory.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant in Matthew 7:23, where it underscores the ultimate separation from God for those who are not known by Christ. It highlights the reality of final judgment and eternal division. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of this warning from Jesus, emphasizing it is not a mild dismissal but a commanded and permanent removal from His presence.

In a Greco-Roman context, a formal departure (like John Mark's in Acts 13:13) could signify a serious breach of social or travel partnership, carrying reputational and relational weight. The command to 'depart' in a judicial setting (Matthew 7:23) echoes the authority of a ruler or judge banishing someone from their presence, a powerful image of rejection.

ὑπάγω (hypagō, G5217) — a more general 'to go away' or 'to depart,' often without the compounded emphasis on separation inherent in ἀποχωρέω. ἀπέρχομαι (aperchomai, G565) — another common verb for 'to go away,' frequently used for physical departure; ἀποχωρέω can imply a more deliberate withdrawal or distancing.

Word Details

Scripture References