ὀπίσω

behind, after

Definition

ὀπίσω primarily means 'behind' or 'after' in a spatial, temporal, or relational sense. Spatially, it denotes position, as in being physically behind someone (Mark 1:7). Temporally, it refers to coming after in time, such as John the Baptist saying one 'comes after' him (Matthew 3:11). Most significantly, it carries a relational sense of 'following after' someone as a disciple, which is central to Jesus's call to his followers (Matthew 4:19, 16:24). In a negative sense, it can mean 'turning back' from a commitment, as warned against in Matthew 24:18.

Biblical Usage

ὀπίσω is used 36 times in the New Testament, predominantly in the Gospels (especially Matthew and Mark) and Revelation. Its most theologically charged usage is in the context of discipleship, where Jesus commands individuals to 'come after' or 'follow' him, implying total commitment (Matthew 16:24, Mark 1:17). It is also used in warnings against 'looking back' or turning back to one's old life (Luke 9:62, Matthew 24:18). In Revelation, it appears in visions describing things seen 'behind' the speaker (Revelation 1:10).

Etymology

Derived from the Greek root ὀπί (opi), meaning 'back' or 'behind.' It is an adverb that also functions as a preposition. It is related to the word ὀψέ (opse), meaning 'late.' The core idea is of posteriority in location or sequence.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as the term for Christian discipleship. To 'come after' (ὀπίσω μου) Jesus means to submit to his lordship, deny oneself, and follow his path, even to the cross (Matthew 16:24). It defines the fundamental posture of a believer: not leading, but following behind the Master. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting that discipleship is an active, continual pursuit of Jesus, not a one-time event. The negative use in Matthew 16:23, where Peter is rebuked for being a 'hindrance' by setting his mind on human things, starkly contrasts true following with worldly opposition.

In the first-century Greco-Roman world, a disciple (μαθητής) literally followed behind their teacher, learning through imitation and close proximity. The call to 'come after' Jesus would have been understood as an invitation to this kind of committed master-student relationship, but with the radical demand of prioritizing Jesus above all family and social ties (Luke 14:26).

μετά (meta, G3326) — Often 'with' or 'after,' but focuses more on accompaniment than positional following. ἔξω (exō, G1854) — Means 'outside' or 'out,' a spatial opposite in some contexts. εἰς (eis, G1519) — Means 'into,' indicating direction toward, whereas ὀπίσω indicates following behind.

Word Details

Scripture References