πεζεύω

I travel on foot

Definition

The verb πεζεύω means 'to travel on foot' or 'to go by land,' specifically contrasting with sea travel. In its single New Testament occurrence in Acts 20:13, it describes Paul's deliberate choice to travel overland from Troas to Assos, while his companions sailed by ship. This action highlights a planned separation for a portion of the journey, allowing Paul to meet his traveling party at a designated point. The term emphasizes the terrestrial, pedestrian nature of the movement, as opposed to sailing (πλέω).

Biblical Usage

πεζεύω is used only once in the New Testament, in Acts 20:13. In this narrative context, it describes a specific logistical decision within Paul's missionary travel plans. The usage is straightforward and descriptive, detailing the mode of transportation ('going by land') chosen for a segment of the journey from Troas to Assos, while others in his party took the ship.

Etymology

πεζεύω is derived from the adjective πεζός (G3979), meaning 'on foot' or 'pedestrian.' This root is itself related to πούς (G4228), the Greek word for 'foot.' The verb form directly conveys the action of traveling by means of one's feet, i.e., walking or journeying overland.

Semantic Range

In the ancient world, travel was broadly categorized by mode: by sea (πλέω) or by land (πεζεύω/ὁδοιπορέω). Choosing to travel 'by land' (πεζεύω) often implied a slower, more arduous, and sometimes more dangerous journey compared to sailing, depending on the terrain and roads. In Acts 20:13, Paul's decision to go on foot while his companions sailed may have been for personal reflection, ministry opportunities along the way, or simply to meet the ship at the next port, a common travel coordination method.

πορεύομαι (G4198) — A more general term for 'to go' or 'to journey,' without specifying the mode of travel. ὁδοιπορέω (G3593) — Also means 'to travel' or 'to journey on a road,' closely related to πεζεύω but potentially emphasizing the path or road itself.

Word Details

Scripture References