παρέρχομαι

I pass by

Definition

The verb παρέρχομαι primarily means 'to pass by' or 'to go past' in a physical sense, as when Jesus passes by individuals or locations (e.g., Matthew 20:30). It also carries the metaphorical meaning of 'to pass away' or 'to disappear,' used for things that are transient, such as the heavens and earth in contrast to Jesus' enduring words (Matthew 24:35). In some contexts, it can imply neglect or disregard, as in failing to obey a command. Additionally, in certain constructions, it denotes something becoming invalid or being set aside, like the Law not passing away until all is accomplished (Matthew 5:18).

Biblical Usage

This verb is used 27 times in the New Testament, appearing in the Gospels, Acts, and the Epistles. It often describes Jesus physically passing by someone, as in the healing of blind men (Matthew 20:30) or the demon-possessed men (Matthew 8:28). A significant pattern is its use for the passing away of transient things, such as the present age (1 Corinthians 7:31) or the old covenant (Hebrews 8:13). It also appears in narrative passages to indicate time passing, like the crowd's need for food as the day wore on (Matthew 14:15).

Etymology

Derived from the preposition παρά (para, meaning 'beside' or 'alongside') and the verb ἔρχομαι (erchomai, meaning 'to come' or 'to go'). Literally, it means 'to come/go alongside,' which evolved into the senses of passing by physically or passing away temporally. It is a compound verb common in Koine Greek, with cognates appearing in classical literature with similar meanings of passage or neglect.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights the contrast between the temporal and the eternal. Its use in Matthew 24:35 and parallels underscores the imperishable nature of Jesus' words compared to the created order. In passages about the Law (Matthew 5:18) and the old covenant (Hebrews 8:13), it informs discussions on continuity and fulfillment in God's redemptive plan. Understanding its range from physical passage to metaphysical transience enriches reading by clarifying the Bible's themes of permanence versus change.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, the concept of 'passing by' or 'passing away' was often associated with the transient nature of life and human affairs, a theme common in philosophical and literary texts. The physical act of someone important passing by could signify a moment of opportunity or encounter, which aligns with Gospel narratives where Jesus' passing by leads to healing or calling.

διαβαίνω (diabainō, G1224) — emphasizes crossing over through something, like a river or boundary. ἀπέρχομαι (aperchomai, G565) — focuses on departing or going away from a place. παροίχομαι (paroichomai, G3945) — a rarer synonym meaning to have passed by or be past, often used for time.

Word Details

Scripture References