παράγω

I pass by, depart, pass away

Definition

The verb παράγω primarily means 'to pass by' or 'to go past,' often describing physical movement alongside something or someone, as when Jesus passes by individuals like Matthew (Matthew 9:9) or the blind men (Matthew 9:27). It can also signify 'to depart' or 'to go away,' such as when Jesus hid and departed from the temple (John 8:59). In a metaphorical sense, it conveys the idea of 'passing away' or 'fading,' used by Paul to describe the transient nature of the present world (1 Corinthians 7:31).

Biblical Usage

παράγω is used 10 times in the New Testament, predominantly in the Gospels to narrate Jesus' movements—often as he passes by individuals, leading to significant encounters or calls (e.g., Matthew 9:9, Mark 2:14). In John, it describes Jesus' departure from danger (John 8:59) and his passing by a man born blind (John 9:1). The sole non-Gospel use is in 1 Corinthians 7:31, where Paul applies it figuratively to the world's impermanence.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition παρά (para, meaning 'beside' or 'alongside') and the verb ἄγω (agō, meaning 'to lead' or 'to bring'). Literally, it means 'to lead or go alongside,' which evolved into the senses of passing by, departing, or causing to pass. Cognates include παράγωγος (paragōgos, 'bringing to') and παραγωγή (paragōgē, 'a bringing to').

Semantic Range

παράγω enriches understanding of divine presence and human temporality. In the Gospels, Jesus 'passing by' signifies moments of divine initiative and grace, where he actively engages with individuals in need. In 1 Corinthians 7:31, its metaphorical use underscores the Christian worldview of the world's fleeting nature compared to eternal realities, highlighting themes of discipleship and eschatological hope.

In the Greco-Roman world, 'passing by' could imply a casual or intentional movement, often in public spaces like roads or markets, where social interactions occurred. Jesus' actions of passing by and calling followers would resonate as a deliberate, authoritative gesture, contrasting with mere coincidence. The term's use for departure also reflects cultural norms of avoiding conflict or danger.

παρέρχομαι (parerchomai, G3928) — also means 'to pass by' or 'pass away,' but often with a nuance of coming alongside and then moving past, used more frequently for temporal passing. ἀπέρχομαι (aperchomai, G565) — emphasizes 'to go away' or 'depart,' focusing on the point of leaving rather than the movement alongside. πορεύομαι (poreuomai, G4198) — a general term for 'to go' or 'travel,' without the specific connotation of passing alongside something.

Word Details

Scripture References