from ἐκ and νεύω; (by analogy) to slip off, i.e. quietly withdraw:--convey self away.
Transliteration:ekneúō
Pronunciation:ek-nyoo'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G1593 (ἐκνεύω) is a compound formed from the preposition ἐκ (ek), meaning "out of" or "from," and the verb νεύω (neuō), meaning "to nod," "to incline," or "to beckon." The combination suggests a movement "out of" or "away from" by means of an inclination or subtle gesture. Thus, the core meaning conveys the sense of a quiet, subtle, or unobtrusive withdrawal. It implies slipping away, receding, or conveying oneself away without drawing attention, rather than a forceful or openly declared departure. The nuance is one of discreet movement, perhaps to avoid notice or confrontation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G1593 (ἐκνεύω) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of John:
* **[[John 5:13]]**: "But the man who was healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had slipped away (ὁ Ἰησοῦς ἐξένευσεν), since there was a crowd in that place."
The context here is Jesus' healing of the paralytic at the Pool of Bethesda on the Sabbath. After instructing the healed man to take up his mat and walk, Jesus immediately withdraws from the scene. The verb ἐξένευσεν (exeneusen) describes Jesus' action as a quiet, unobserved departure. The reason provided – "since there was a crowd in that place" – suggests that Jesus' withdrawal was a deliberate act to avoid immediate public recognition, confrontation with the Jewish authorities (who were already scrutinizing His Sabbath activities), or perhaps to prevent a premature acclamation that would hinder His broader ministry. This subtle departure contrasts with more public declarations and highlights Jesus' strategic wisdom in managing His interactions and the timing of His revelations.
### Related Words & Concepts
While G1593 (ἐκνεύω) uniquely emphasizes a *subtle* or *quiet* withdrawal, it relates to broader concepts of departure, avoidance, and strategic movement found in the New Testament. Other Greek words for "depart" or "withdraw" include:
* ἀποχωρέω (apochōreō, `{{G672}}`): To go away, depart, withdraw (e.g., [[Matthew 7:23]]). This is a more general term for departure.
* ἀναχωρέω (anachōreō, `{{G402}}`): To go back, withdraw, retire, often implying a strategic retreat to avoid danger or conflict (e.g., [[Matthew 2:13]], [[Matthew 12:15]]). This word often carries a sense of fleeing or retreating.
* φεύγω (pheugō, `{{G5343}}`): To flee, escape, or run away (e.g., [[Matthew 2:13]]). This term implies a more urgent or desperate flight.
What distinguishes ἐκνεύω from these is its specific nuance of *unobtrusive* or *unnoticed* withdrawal. It is not necessarily a flight from danger, nor a simple departure, but a discreet movement away, suggesting a deliberate act of avoiding immediate attention or engagement. This aligns with instances where Jesus sought solitude or avoided premature public acclaim.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of G1593 (ἐκνεύω) in [[John 5:13]] offers significant insight into Jesus' character and ministry strategy.
1. **Avoidance of Premature Conflict:** Jesus frequently avoided direct confrontation with the authorities until His "hour" had come (e.g., [[John 7:30]], [[John 8:20]]). His quiet withdrawal after healing the paralytic demonstrates a strategic wisdom, allowing the miracle to speak for itself while deferring an immediate clash over the Sabbath law.
2. **Humility and Disregard for Earthly Acclaim:** Jesus did not seek immediate praise or public recognition for His miracles. His slipping away underscores His humility and His focus on His divine mission rather than human glory. He did not desire to be made king by force or popular demand (cf. [[John 6:15]]).
3. **Sovereignty and Control:** Jesus' ability to quietly withdraw, even amidst a crowd, suggests His divine control over His circumstances and interactions. He determines the timing and manner of His engagements, revealing Himself and His power according to His sovereign will.
4. **Emphasis on the Witness:** By withdrawing, Jesus allowed the healed man to be the primary witness to the miracle and to face the questioning of the Jewish leaders. This sets the stage for the subsequent dialogue and the man's eventual encounter with Jesus (cf. [[John 5:14]]).
### Summary
The Greek word G1593 (ἐκνεύω) precisely captures the concept of a quiet, subtle, or unobtrusive withdrawal. Its sole appearance in [[John 5:13]] vividly describes Jesus' action after healing the paralytic at Bethesda, where He "slipped away" amidst the crowd. This singular use is highly significant, revealing aspects of Jesus' strategic wisdom, humility, and sovereign control over His ministry. His use of ἐκνεύω highlights His deliberate choice to avoid premature public acclaim or confrontation, allowing His works to speak for themselves and demonstrating a profound understanding of divine timing in the unfolding of His redemptive mission.
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