### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb εἰσφέρω (eisphérō, `{{G1533}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition εἰς (eis, `{{G1519}}`), meaning "into" or "to," and the verb φέρω (pherō, `{{G5342}}`), meaning "to bear," "carry," or "bring." The compounding of these elements precisely defines its core meaning: "to carry inward," "to bring into," or "to lead into."
Its semantic range encompasses both literal and figurative applications. Literally, it denotes the physical act of transporting an object or person *into* a specific location or enclosure. Figuratively, it extends to the concept of introducing something or someone into a particular state, condition, or situation. This can involve leading a person into temptation, bringing a matter before an authority, or introducing a concept. The inherent directionality of εἰς is crucial, always emphasizing movement *toward* or *into* something, distinguishing it from verbs that denote bringing *out* or simply carrying.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb εἰσφέρω appears a limited number of times in the New Testament, yet its occurrences are highly significant, particularly in theological contexts.
One prominent literal usage is found in the account of the paralytic in [[Luke 5:18-19]]. Here, the men sought to "bring him in" (εἰσφέρω) before Jesus, highlighting the physical effort required to transport the man through the roof. Similarly, in [[Acts 21:28]] and [[Acts 21:29]], Paul is falsely accused of "bringing Greeks into the temple" (εἰσφέρω), an act forbidden by Jewish law. These instances underscore the concrete, physical aspect of carrying or leading something or someone into a place.
In [[Hebrews 13:11]], the term describes the action of "bringing the blood of animals into the sanctuary" (εἰσφέρω) by the high priest as part of the Day of Atonement rituals. This usage connects the verb to sacrificial practices and the sacred space, emphasizing the movement of the offering into the holy place for atonement.
A pivotal figurative use appears in the Lord's Prayer in [[Luke 11:4]]: "And lead us not into temptation" (καὶ μὴ εἰσενέγκῃς ἡμᾶς εἰς πειρασμόν). This is arguably the most theologically charged occurrence. While some manuscripts of [[Matthew 6:13]] use a different verb, the concept is identical. This petition does not imply that God actively tempts humanity (cf. [[James 1:13]]), but rather that He would not permit or allow believers to be led *into* or overwhelmed by circumstances of severe testing or temptation that would lead to sin. It is a plea for divine protection and guidance, asking God to deliver His people from perilous spiritual situations.
Another significant figurative application is found in [[1 Timothy 6:7]]: "For we brought nothing into the world" (οὐδὲν γὰρ εἰσηνέγκαμεν εἰς τὸν κόσμον). This verse speaks to the transient nature of material possessions and human life, emphasizing that we enter this world devoid of earthly goods and will depart similarly. It serves as a foundational statement against materialism and for contentment.
In [[Luke 12:11]], Jesus warns His disciples that when they are "brought before synagogues and rulers and authorities" (ὅταν δὲ εἰσφέρωσιν ὑμᾶς ἐπὶ τὰς συναγωγὰς καὶ τὰς ἀρχὰς καὶ τὰς ἐξουσίας), they should not worry about what to say. Here, εἰσφέρω denotes being led into a situation of legal or political confrontation, highlighting the challenges faced by believers for their faith.
### Related Words & Concepts
εἰσφέρω is part of a family of Greek verbs that express movement, particularly those compounded with εἰς (into).
* **φέρω (pherō, `{{G5342}}`):** The base verb, meaning "to carry," "bear," or "bring." εἰσφέρω specifies the *direction* of this carrying.
* **εἰσέρχομαι (eiserchomai, `{{G1525}}`):** "To go in," "to enter." While εἰσφέρω implies an agent bringing something/someone, εἰσέρχομαι focuses on the subject's own act of entering.
* **εἰσάγω (eisagō, `{{G1521}}`):** "To lead in," "to bring in." This verb is very close in meaning and application to εἰσφέρω, often used interchangeably in contexts of leading persons into a place or before authorities. The nuance might be that εἰσάγω emphasizes leading, while εἰσφέρω emphasizes carrying or bearing.
* **Antonyms:** Verbs like ἐκφέρω (ekpherō, `{{G1627}}`, "to carry out") or ἐξάγω (exagō, `{{G1806}}`, "to lead out") serve as conceptual opposites, emphasizing movement *away from* or *out of* a place or state.
The concepts associated with εἰσφέρω thus include:
* **Directionality:** Always an inward movement.
* **Agency:** Implies an agent doing the bringing or leading.
* **Contextual states:** Temptation, judgment, sacred space, existential reality (birth).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of εἰσφέρω is most profoundly felt in the petition of the Lord's Prayer: "Lead us not into temptation" ([[Luke 11:4]]). This phrase encapsulates a critical aspect of divine providence and human vulnerability. It clarifies that while God tests and allows trials for growth ([[James 1:2-4]]), He does not instigate evil or tempt humanity to sin ([[James 1:13]]). The prayer is a plea for God's protective hand, asking Him to prevent believers from being overwhelmed by trials that could lead to spiritual failure. It acknowledges the reality of temptation and the need for divine intervention to navigate it successfully. This highlights God's active role in sustaining His people in holiness and righteousness.
The statement in [[1 Timothy 6:7]] ("we brought nothing into the world") carries significant theological implications for Christian ethics and eschatology. It serves as a stark reminder of humanity's transient existence and the futility of accumulating earthly wealth. It promotes a theology of contentment and detachment from materialism, redirecting focus towards spiritual and eternal riches.
Furthermore, the act of "bringing blood into the sanctuary" ([[Hebrews 13:11]]) links εἰσφέρω to the Old Testament sacrificial system, which prefigured Christ's ultimate sacrifice. This imagery underscores the necessity of Christ's blood being "brought" into the heavenly sanctuary, not by human hands, but by His own divine act, to secure eternal redemption for believers ([[Hebrews 9:12]]).
Finally, the concept of being "brought before" authorities ([[Luke 12:11]]) speaks to the reality of persecution and the cost of discipleship. It reminds believers that their faith may lead them into challenging and confrontational situations, yet God promises to provide wisdom and strength in such moments.
### Summary
εἰσφέρω (eisphérō, `{{G1533}}`) is a Greek verb meaning "to carry inward," "to bring into," or "to lead into." Its core meaning is defined by the compound nature of εἰς (into) and φέρω (to carry), emphasizing a clear directionality of movement. Biblically, it is used literally for physically bringing persons or objects into a place (e.g., the paralytic into Jesus' presence, [[Luke 5:18]]; blood into the sanctuary, [[Hebrews 13:11]]). Figuratively, its most profound use is in the Lord's Prayer, where it signifies a plea for God not to "lead us into temptation" ([[Luke 11:4]]), highlighting divine protection from overwhelming trials. It also conveys the transient nature of human life and possessions ([[1 Timothy 6:7]]) and the reality of being led into situations of persecution for one's faith ([[Luke 12:11]]). Theologically, εἰσφέρω illuminates God's providential care in spiritual testing, the call to detachment from worldly goods, and the sacrificial work of Christ.
TRV