### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diaperáō**, represented by `{{G1276}}`, means **to cross entirely**. It is derived from διά and a derivative of the base of πέραν. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible and is used to describe an action of going over, passing over, or sailing over a space.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1276}}` most often describes the physical act of crossing a body of water by boat. This is seen repeatedly in the Gospels as Jesus and his disciples travel. For example, after entering a ship, Jesus **passed over** to his own city [[Matthew 9:1]]. Similarly, Jesus **passed over** again by ship to the other side of the sea [[Mark 5:21]]. The word is also used to describe Paul's missionary travels, where he found a ship **sailing over** to Phenicia [[Acts 21:2]]. A unique and figurative use appears in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, where a great gulf is fixed so that no one can **pass** from one side to the other [[Luke 16:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of crossing and travel:
* `{{G1224}}` **diabaínō** (to cross): This word also means to cross, but it is used in [[Luke 16:26]] alongside `{{G1276}}` to emphasize the complete impossibility of traversing the great gulf.
* `{{G1684}}` **embaínō** (to walk on, i.e. embark): This term often precedes the action of `{{G1276}}`, signifying the act of getting into a ship before the journey. Jesus and his disciples would first **enter** a ship and then pass over [[Matthew 9:1]].
* `{{G4143}}` **ploîon** (a sailer, i.e. vessel): This is the word for the **ship** or vessel used to perform the action of `{{G1276}}`. The crossings described in [[Matthew 9:1]], [[Mark 5:21]], and [[Acts 21:2]] are all explicitly connected with a **ship**.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G1276}}` is found in its application to both literal and figurative journeys.
* **Ministerial Movement:** The word frequently marks a transition in Jesus' physical location as He moves from one area of ministry to another. His crossings to places like Gennesaret were purposeful journeys to continue His work [[Matthew 14:34]].
* **Apostolic Mission:** In Acts, the term is applied to the travels of the apostles, demonstrating the continuation of this mission-focused movement as they carry the gospel to new regions [[Acts 21:2]].
* **Irrevocable Separation:** The most profound use of `{{G1276}}` is in [[Luke 16:26]]. Here, its meaning of "to cross entirely" highlights a theological truth about the finality of one's state after death. The inability to **pass** the great gulf signifies an absolute and permanent separation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1276}}` is a specific verb that denotes a complete crossing. While most of its uses are literal, describing Jesus and the apostles sailing across water to fulfill their missions, its single figurative use provides a powerful image of an impassable spiritual barrier. The word effectively captures the theme of transition, whether it is a physical journey from one shore to another or the inability to cross a divide in the afterlife.
TRV