### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]]).
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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