ἐλαύνω

I drive on, propel, row

Definition

The verb ἐλαύνω primarily means 'to drive' or 'to propel.' In its transitive sense, it describes forcefully moving an object or person, as seen when the demon 'drives' a man into the desert (Luke 8:29) or when a ship is 'driven' by a storm (James 3:4). In its intransitive sense, it specifically means 'to row' a boat, as the disciples were 'rowing' on the Sea of Galilee when Jesus approached them (Mark 6:48, John 6:19). The word can also carry a metaphorical sense of being carried along aimlessly, like clouds 'driven' by a storm (2 Peter 2:17).

Biblical Usage

ἐλαύνω is used five times in the New Testament across Gospels, an epistle, and a general letter. In the Gospels, it appears in nautical contexts meaning 'to row' (Mark 6:48, John 6:19) and in a demonic context meaning 'to drive' (Luke 8:29). James 3:4 uses it literally for a ship being 'driven' by winds, while 2 Peter 2:17 employs it metaphorically for false teachers being like clouds 'driven' by a storm, emphasizing instability and lack of control.

Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek root ἐλαύνω, meaning 'to drive, set in motion.' It is a common verb in classical Greek with a broad semantic range covering driving animals, chariots, ships, and even compelling people. This root is related to words like ἔλαιον (elaion, G1637) for 'olive oil,' originally connected to the idea of pressing or driving olives.

Semantic Range

ἐλαύνω enriches our understanding of divine power and human helplessness. In Luke 8:29, it illustrates the destructive, coercive force of demonic possession, starkly contrasting with Jesus's liberating authority. The metaphorical use in 2 Peter 2:17 paints a vivid picture of the spiritual emptiness and aimlessness of false teachers, 'driven' by forces rather than anchored in truth. The rowing scenes (Mark 6:48, John 6:19) highlight human toil and limitation against which Jesus's miraculous intervention is displayed.

In a culture dependent on sailing and rowing for travel and trade, the literal sense of 'rowing' (Mark 6:48) would resonate with experiences of strenuous manual labor and vulnerability on the water. The sense of 'driving' animals or people reflected societal norms of control and compulsion, whether by herdsmen, charioteers, or even supernatural forces, as in Luke 8:29.

ἄγω (agō, G71) — a more general term for 'lead' or 'bring,' often without the forceful connotation of driving. διώκω (diōkō, G1377) — means 'to pursue' or 'persecute,' focusing on chase rather than general propulsion. πλέω (pleō, G4126) — specifically means 'to sail,' focusing on the journey rather than the action of rowing.

Word Details

Scripture References