ἐκφέρω

I bring out, carry out

Definition

The verb ἐκφέρω primarily means 'to bring out' or 'to carry out.' In its most literal sense, it describes physically carrying something from one place to another, such as carrying a body out of a city for burial, as seen in Acts 5:6, 9-10. It can also mean 'to bring forth' or 'to produce,' as in the land that 'bears' thorns and thistles in Hebrews 6:8. In a more figurative or ceremonial context, it refers to bringing out items like the best robe for the prodigal son in Luke 15:22.

Biblical Usage

ἐκφέρω is used seven times in the New Testament, predominantly in the book of Acts (five times) in the narrative of Ananias and Sapphira, where it specifically refers to carrying out their bodies for burial (Acts 5:6, 9-10). It also appears in a parable of Jesus (Luke 15:22), a proverbial statement (1 Timothy 6:7), and an agricultural metaphor (Hebrews 6:8). Its usage is split between literal, physical removal and metaphorical production or presentation.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐκ (ek), meaning 'out of' or 'from,' and the common verb φέρω (pherō, G5342), meaning 'to bear' or 'to carry.' The compound thus literally means 'to bear out.' This transparent formation clearly conveys the core idea of movement from an interior to an exterior space.

Semantic Range

While not a central theological term, ἐκφέρω enriches understanding in key passages. In Hebrews 6:8, its use in the metaphor of land 'producing' thorns directly contrasts with land that receives blessing, illustrating the serious consequences of apostasy. In Luke 15:22, the father's command to 'bring out' the best robe is a vivid picture of grace and full restoration in the parable of the prodigal son, moving from judgment to celebration.

In the burial context of Acts 5, the act of 'carrying out' a body for burial was a immediate necessity in a culture without modern mortuary facilities, especially given Jewish customs concerning ritual purity and prompt burial. This underscores the shocking and solemn nature of the divine judgment in that narrative.

φέρω (pherō, G5342) — The root verb, a more general term for bearing or carrying without the inherent 'out of' direction. ἐκβάλλω (ekballō, G1544) — Often means 'to cast out' or 'drive out,' implying more force or expulsion than the neutral carrying of ἐκφέρω. προφέρω (propherō, G4393) — Means 'to bring forth' or 'produce,' but with a sense of bringing something forward for display or use.

Word Details

Scripture References