### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ekeîthen**, represented by `{{G1564}}`, is an adverb meaning **from that place, (from) thence, there**. It appears **27 times** across **27 unique verses**, functioning as a specific marker of departure or origin. It consistently indicates movement away from a previously mentioned location, providing structure and flow to the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospels, `{{G1564}}` is most frequently used to chronicle the travels of Jesus. It marks the conclusion of an event or teaching in one location and the transition to the next stage of His ministry. For instance, after commissioning the twelve disciples, Jesus "departed **thence** to teach and to preach in their cities" [[Matthew 11:1]]. The word is also used in Jesus's instructions to his followers, telling them that if a town does not receive them, they should "when ye depart **thence**, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them" [[Mark 6:11]]. In a more figurative sense, it describes the impassable divide after death, where no one can cross from the place of torment [[Luke 16:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words, particularly verbs of motion, are often paired with `{{G1564}}` to describe the action of leaving:
* `{{G1831}}` **exérchomai** (to issue (literally or figuratively):--come (forth, out), depart (out of), escape, get out, go (abroad, away, forth, out, thence), proceed (forth), spread abroad): This often describes the simple action of leaving a place, as when Jesus "went out from **thence**" and returned to his own country [[Mark 6:1]].
* `{{G3327}}` **metabaínō** (to change place:--depart, go, pass, remove): This word signifies a removal or transition from one location to another, as when Jesus "departed from **thence**" to come near the Sea of Galilee [[Matthew 15:29]].
* `{{G402}}` **anachōréō** (to retire:--depart, give place, go (turn) aside, withdraw self): This term implies a deliberate withdrawal, often for safety or solitude. Jesus "departed **thence** by ship into a desert place apart" after hearing of John the Baptist's death [[Matthew 14:13]].
### Theological Significance
Though a simple adverb, the use of `{{G1564}}` carries theological weight by highlighting the purpose and consequence of movement.
* **Ministerial Progression:** The word often signals a deliberate transition in Christ's work. After finishing a series of parables, Jesus "departed **thence**," marking a clear end to that teaching session and a move toward his next destination [[Matthew 13:53]].
* **A Sign of Judgment:** The command for disciples to "depart **thence**" from towns that reject them is not merely a practical instruction but a symbolic act of witness against that place's unbelief [[Mark 6:11]].
* **Irrevocable Separation:** Its use in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus underscores the finality of one's state after death. The great gulf is fixed so that none may "pass to us, that would come from **thence**," illustrating a permanent and uncrossable separation [[Luke 16:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1564}}` is more than a simple directional word. It acts as a crucial narrative marker, especially in the life of Christ, signaling intentional movement and transition. It connects physical departure with divine purpose, whether progressing the Gospel mission, executing judgment, or defining the finality of the afterlife. The use of **ekeîthen** demonstrates how even functional words in Scripture contribute to the broader theological story.
TRV