The Greek word ekphérō, represented by G1627, is formed from the words ἐκ (out) and φέρω (to bear). It means to bear out or carry forth, both in a literal and figurative sense. It appears 9 times across 7 unique verses in the Bible, illustrating actions of removal, production, and presentation.
In its biblical usage, G1627 describes several distinct actions. It is used literally to describe carrying a body out for burial, as in the judgment of Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:6, Acts 5:9, Acts 5:10). It also depicts the act of bringing the sick out into the streets in hopes of healing Acts 5:15. In the parable of the prodigal son, the father commands the servants to bring forth the best robe, an act of restoration and honor Luke 15:22. Figuratively, the word is used to describe land that beareth thorns and briers, meaning it produces them Hebrews 6:8. It is also used to state that we can carry nothing out of this world upon death 1 Timothy 6:7.
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of G1627:
- G1533 eisphérō (to carry inward): This word is the direct counterpart to G1627. In 1 Timothy 6:7, they are used together to contrast what we brought (eisphérō) into the world with what we can carry out (ekphérō).
- G2290 tháptō (to bury): This word is functionally connected to G1627 in the narrative of Ananias and Sapphira. They are first carried out (ekphérō) and then buried (tháptō), showing the sequence of events following their deaths Acts 5:6.
- G1746 endýō (to invest with clothing): In the story of the prodigal son, the robe is first brought forth G1627 and then immediately used to put it on (endýō) the son, linking the act of presentation with the act of restoration Luke 15:22.
- G1634 ekpsýchō (to expire): This term, meaning to "give up the ghost," precedes the use of G1627 in Acts 5. Sapphira first yielded up the ghost (ekpsýchō) and was then carried forth (ekphérō) for burial, establishing a clear cause and effect Acts 5:10.
The theological weight of G1627 is evident in its various applications.
- Finality of Judgment: In Acts 5, the repeated use of G1627 to carry out the bodies of Ananias and Sapphira underscores the swift and final nature of God's judgment against their deceit Acts 5:9-10.
- Tangible Restoration: The father's command to bring forth the best robe is a powerful, tangible symbol of grace. It is an outward action that makes the son's forgiveness and restored status visible to all Luke 15:22.
- Fruit of one's Nature: The use of G1627 in Hebrews 6:8 to describe land that beareth thorns illustrates a spiritual principle: that a source will produce according to its nature, whether cursed or blessed.
- Earthly Transience: The statement that we can carry nothing out of the world establishes the temporary nature of material wealth and focuses believers on eternal, rather than earthly, value 1 Timothy 6:7.
In summary, G1627 is more than a simple word of motion. While it literally means to carry forth, its applications in Scripture convey profound concepts. It is used to illustrate divine judgment, undeserved grace, the finality of death, and the principle that what is inside will ultimately be brought out and made known. From carrying a body for burial to presenting a robe of honor, ekphérō demonstrates how physical actions can represent significant spiritual realities.
TRV