from διά and a derivative of the base of πέραν; to cross entirely:--go over, pass (over), sail over.
Transliteration:diaperáō
Pronunciation:dee-ap-er-ah'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G1276 διαπεράω (diaperáō) is a compound word formed from the preposition διά (dia), meaning "through" or "across," and the verb περάω (peráō), meaning "to pass over" or "to cross." The prefix διά intensifies or specifies the action, indicating a complete traversal from one side to another. Thus, the core meaning of διαπεράω is "to cross completely," "to pass through to the other side," or "to sail across." It inherently implies reaching a destination on the opposite shore or boundary. Its semantic range encompasses the act of successfully navigating a barrier, typically a body of water, to arrive at a new location.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
G1276 διαπεράω appears a limited number of times in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels and once in Acts, consistently denoting the act of crossing over a body of water.
* In [[Matthew 14:34]], after the feeding of the five thousand and Jesus walking on water, the disciples "crossed over" (διαπεράω) to Gennesaret. The word highlights the completion of their journey across the Sea of Galilee.
* [[Mark 5:21]] uses διαπεράω to describe Jesus "crossing over again by boat" to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, where he is met by a great crowd. This marks a geographical transition in his ministry.
* Similarly, [[Mark 6:53]] states that after another crossing, Jesus and his disciples "came to Gennesaret" (διαπεράω). The verb emphasizes the successful arrival at their intended destination after traversing the lake.
* [[Luke 8:22]] records Jesus instructing his disciples, "Let us go across to the other side of the lake" (διαπεράω). This instance precedes the calming of the storm and the exorcism of the Gerasene demoniac, underscoring the intentional movement to a specific region for ministry.
* In [[Acts 21:2]], the verb is used in a slightly broader sense, describing Paul and his companions "sailing over to Phoenicia." Here, it signifies a longer sea voyage that brings them to a new region, emphasizing the completion of the maritime journey.
In each context, διαπεράω underscores the successful and complete traversal of a geographical barrier, most often the Sea of Galilee, marking a significant transition in location for the characters involved, particularly Jesus and his ministry.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of G1276 διαπεράω is illuminated by its relationship to other Greek terms of movement and travel:
* περάω (peráō): The base verb, meaning "to pass over" or "to cross." διαπεράω adds the nuance of completion or thoroughness to this basic action.
* ἔρχομαι (erchomai - `{{G2064}}`): A general verb for "to come" or "to go." διαπεράω specifies the *manner* and *direction* of going (across a barrier).
* ἀποπλέω (apopleō - `{{G622}}`): "to sail away." While related to sea travel, ἀποπλέω focuses on the departure, whereas διαπεράω emphasizes the completion of the crossing.
* πλέω (pleō - `{{G4126}}`): "to sail." This verb describes the act of sailing itself, while διαπεράω describes the result of sailing across to a destination.
* The concept of "journey" or "passage" (e.g., `{{G3597}}` hodos, "way," "road," "journey") is foundational, with διαπεράω specifying a particular type of journey involving crossing.
* The notion of "the other side" (πέραν - peran, from which περάω is derived) is crucial to understanding διαπεράω, as it inherently points to a destination beyond the starting point.
### Theological Significance
While primarily descriptive of physical movement, the repeated use of G1276 διαπεράω in the Gospels carries subtle theological weight within the narrative of Jesus' ministry:
* **Intentionality of Ministry:** The act of "crossing over" often signifies Jesus' deliberate movement to new regions or communities. These crossings are not random but precede significant encounters, teachings, or miracles, highlighting the purposeful nature of his mission to proclaim the Kingdom of God in diverse locations.
* **Demonstration of Authority:** In contexts where Jesus crosses the stormy Sea of Galilee (e.g., [[Luke 8:22]] leading to the calming of the storm), the successful traversal, even amidst natural chaos, subtly underscores his divine authority over creation. The word itself describes the *completion* of the journey, which in these narratives is often a testament to his power.
* **Boundary Crossing and Inclusivity:** Jesus' frequent crossings, particularly from Jewish areas to Gentile regions (like the Decapolis, where the Gerasene demoniac was healed), can be seen as symbolic of his ministry transcending traditional boundaries. The physical act of διαπεράω foreshadows the spiritual crossing of barriers between people groups in the spread of the Gospel.
* **Progress of the Kingdom:** Each instance of "crossing over" marks a progression in the narrative of Jesus' earthly ministry, signifying new phases, new audiences, and new demonstrations of God's redemptive power. It is a verb of advancement and fulfillment of a journey.
### Summary
G1276 διαπεράω is a precise Greek verb meaning "to cross entirely" or "to pass through to the other side." Predominantly used in the Gospels, it describes the successful traversal of bodies of water, most notably the Sea of Galilee, by Jesus and his disciples. Contextual analysis reveals its role in marking significant geographical transitions in Jesus' ministry, often preceding key teachings or miracles. Theologically, διαπεράω underscores the intentionality and progressive nature of Jesus' mission, his divine authority over creation, and implicitly, the crossing of boundaries in the expansion of God's Kingdom. It signifies the complete and purposeful journey to a new destination.
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