The Greek word ekneúō, represented by G1593, means to convey self away or, by analogy, to slip off, i.e. quietly withdraw. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, making its single usage highly specific. The term describes a deliberate and discreet departure from a situation or place.
The sole appearance of G1593 is in the account of Jesus healing a man at a crowded pool. Following the miracle, the man who was healed G2390 did not know G1492 who had restored him. The scripture explains this is for G1063 Jesus G2424 had conveyed himself away, a multitude G3793 being G5607 in G1722 that place G5117 John 5:13. The word captures Jesus' intentional and quiet withdrawal from the crowd immediately after a public display of divine power.
Several related words from the passage provide a fuller context for this action:
- G2390 iáomai (heal, make whole): This word is defined as "to cure (literally or figuratively)". It signifies the miraculous act that prompted Jesus' departure. Its use extends from physical restoration to spiritual healing, as seen when the scripture says "by whose stripes ye were healed" 1 Peter 2:24.
- G3793 óchlos (multitude): Described as a "throng" or "rabble," this word establishes the reason for Jesus' discreet exit. His withdrawal was a direct response to the presence of the multitude John 5:13.
- G1492 eídō (know): Defined as "to see" or by implication "to know," this word highlights the immediate result of Jesus slipping away. Because He withdrew, the healed man did not know who He was John 5:13.
The theological significance of G1593 is understood entirely through its single use:
- Purpose Over Popularity: Jesus' action to convey himself away demonstrates that His priority was the act of mercy, not the public acclaim that would come from the multitude G3793.
- Intentional Obscurity: The direct result of this withdrawal is that the man who was healed G2390 did not know G1492 the identity of his benefactor. This prevented the miracle from becoming mere spectacle and set the stage for a later, more personal revelation.
- Controlled Movement: The word itself, meaning to slip away, illustrates a controlled and purposeful action. It was not a panicked flight but a deliberate disengagement from the crowd after His specific mission in that moment was complete.
In summary, ekneúō G1593 is a rare but descriptive term. Its single use in scripture provides a unique insight into the methods of Jesus' ministry. By quietly withdrawing from a crowd after a miracle, Jesus demonstrated a focus on divine purpose rather than human praise. The word illustrates a moment where immense power was followed by intentional humility and discretion.
TRV