The Greek word ekdēméō, represented by G1553, is used to mean be absent. Derived from a compound meaning to emigrate or quit, it appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. Figuratively, it describes the state of vacating one's physical body.
In its biblical usage, G1553 is found exclusively in 2 Corinthians chapter 5, where it establishes a key contrast between the believer's earthly and heavenly states. Being "at home in the body" is equated with being absent from the Lord 2 Corinthians 5:6. Therefore, believers are described as confident and willing to be absent from the body in order to be "present with the Lord" 2 Corinthians 5:8. The ultimate goal is that whether present or absent, one's life is "accepted of him" 2 Corinthians 5:9.
Several related words provide a fuller context for this concept of absence and presence:
- G1736 endēméō (be at home (present)): This word is the direct counterpart to G1553 and is used in the same verses to create a stark contrast. While believers are "at home" in the body, they are absent from the Lord 2 Corinthians 5:6.
- G4983 sōma (body): This is the physical vessel from which one is "absent." The term defines the temporary, earthly dwelling place of the believer 2 Corinthians 5:8. Paul also speaks of presenting our bodies as a living sacrifice, acceptable to God Romans 12:1.
- G2292 tharrhéō (have confidence, be confident): This describes the believer's attitude toward the prospect of being absent from the body. Instead of fear, there is confidence, knowing that this absence leads to presence with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:6, 2 Corinthians 5:8).
The theological weight of G1553 is centered on the Christian perspective of life and death.
- Earthly vs. Heavenly Reality: The word helps distinguish between the physical life in the "body" and the spiritual life "with the Lord." It frames earthly existence as a temporary state of being away from one's true home.
- A Confident Hope in Death: Rather than an event to be feared, being "absent from the body" is presented as a desirable and "willing" transition for the believer, born from a deep confidence in being united with the Lord 2 Corinthians 5:8.
- The Aim of Pleasing God: The believer's primary motivation, whether in this life or the next ("present or absent"), is to be "accepted of him." This ambition to please God transcends the physical state 2 Corinthians 5:9.
In summary, G1553 provides more than a simple definition of absence; it encapsulates a core theological hope. The word is used to contrast the believer's temporary physical existence with the ultimate goal of being present with God. It transforms the concept of death from a finality into a confident "emigration" from the body to the Lord, driven by the singular purpose of being wellpleasing to Him.
TRV