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