ἔξοδος

an exit, departure, death

Definition

The Greek word ἔξοδος (exodos) primarily means 'a way out' or 'departure,' but carries rich biblical meanings. In its most literal sense, it refers to a physical exit or departure from a place. Its most famous usage evokes the 'Exodus' of Israel from Egypt, a foundational event of deliverance (Hebrews 11:22). In the New Testament, it also takes on a profound metaphorical meaning, referring to a person's death as a departure from earthly life, as seen in Jesus's discussion with Moses and Elijah about His impending 'departure' in Luke 9:31 and Peter's reference to his own death in 2 Peter 1:15.

Biblical Usage

ἔξοδος is used three times in the New Testament, each in a distinct context that builds on its core meaning of 'departure.' In Luke 9:31, it describes Jesus's forthcoming death, resurrection, and ascension—His ultimate departure from this world. In Hebrews 11:22, it recalls the historical Exodus of the Israelites, connecting Joseph's faith to that future event. Finally, in 2 Peter 1:15, the apostle Peter uses it to refer to his own impending death, framing it as a departure that will allow his teachings to be remembered.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐξ (ex, meaning 'out of') and ὁδός (hodos, meaning 'way' or 'road'). It literally means 'a way out' or 'a road leading out.' This compound construction perfectly captures its meanings of exit, journey out, and departure.

Semantic Range

ἔξοδος is theologically significant as it connects the concept of physical departure with spiritual transition. Jesus's 'exodus' in Luke 9:31 reframes His death not as an end, but as the pivotal departure that accomplishes redemption, echoing and fulfilling the Old Testament Exodus. It transforms the understanding of a believer's death from a mere cessation into a departure to be with Christ, imbuing it with hope and purpose (2 Peter 1:15).

In the Greco-Roman world, the word was a common term for any military march out, a journey's start, or a physical exit. For Jewish readers and writers of the New Testament, however, it was saturated with the history of God's saving act in the Exodus from Egypt. This cultural and religious backdrop gives the word immense weight when applied to Jesus, suggesting He is leading a new and greater redemption.

ἀνάλυσις (analusis, G359) — Emphasizes a 'loosing' or 'unraveling,' used for death as a release (2 Timothy 4:6). θάνατος (thanatos, G2288) — The standard, more blunt word for 'death' itself, without the connotation of a journey or departure.

Word Details

Scripture References