### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G1633}}` (ekchōréō) is a compound formed from the preposition `{{G1537}}` (ek), meaning "out of" or "from," and the verb `{{G5562}}` (chōréō), which signifies "to make room," "to go," or "to withdraw." The combination therefore conveys the specific sense of "to go out from," "to depart out," or "to withdraw from a place or presence." Its core meaning emphasizes a movement of separation or removal from a particular location or state. The semantic range is quite narrow, focusing intently on this act of definitive departure or withdrawal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb `{{G1633}}` (ekchōréō) appears only once in the entire New Testament, making its singular occurrence particularly poignant and significant.
* **[[Luke 5:8]]**: "But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, 'Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!'"
In this powerful narrative, Peter's exclamation comes immediately after the miraculous catch of fish, which profoundly reveals Jesus' divine power and authority over creation. Peter, overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the miracle and the presence of such holiness, cries out for Jesus to "depart" (ekchōréō) from him. This is not a request for Jesus to leave the boat physically, but rather an urgent plea for spiritual and relational separation. Peter's profound sense of his own sinfulness ("I am a sinful man") stands in stark contrast to the manifest holiness and power of Jesus, compelling him to feel utterly unworthy of such proximity. The use of `{{G1633}}` here underscores a deep, visceral reaction to the numinous, a recognition of the vast chasm between human fallenness and divine purity.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek words convey the idea of "departing" or "going out," but `{{G1633}}` carries a unique nuance in its sole biblical occurrence.
* `{{G5562}}` (chōréō): The root verb, meaning to make room, go, or proceed. `{{G1633}}` adds the directional "out of" emphasis.
* `{{G672}}` (apochōréō): To depart from, go away. Similar in meaning but without the strong "out of" component of ek.
* `{{G1831}}` (exerchomai): To come out, go out. This is a very common verb for physical departure from a place, often used in a more general sense than `{{G1633}}`.
* `{{G565}}` (aperchomai): To go away, depart. Another common verb for general departure.
The distinctiveness of `{{G1633}}` in [[Luke 5:8]] lies in its context of a deeply personal, almost desperate, plea for withdrawal born out of profound awe and self-abasement. It's not merely a physical movement, but a spiritual and existential cry for distance from overwhelming holiness.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of `{{G1633}}` in [[Luke 5:8]] is saturated with theological meaning. Peter's cry, "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!" is a pivotal moment in his spiritual journey and a profound theological statement:
1. **Recognition of Divine Holiness:** Peter's immediate reaction to the miraculous catch is not jubilation over the fish, but an overwhelming awareness of Jesus' divine nature. His plea to "depart" is an acknowledgment of the unbridgeable gap between his own sinfulness and Jesus' absolute purity and power. This points to the concept of the *Tremendum* and *Fascinans* in encountering the holy, where awe is mingled with a sense of terror and unworthiness.
2. **Confession of Sin:** The phrase "I am a sinful man" is a raw and honest confession, a moment of radical self-awareness in the presence of God. This humility and brokenness are often prerequisites for true spiritual transformation and calling.
3. **Paradox of Calling:** Ironically, Peter's cry for Jesus to "depart" does not result in separation. Instead, Jesus responds not by withdrawing, but by calling Peter to an even deeper level of discipleship: "Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men" [[Luke 5:10]]. This highlights God's grace, which draws near even when humanity perceives itself as utterly unworthy. The divine response to human unworthiness is not abandonment but a gracious invitation to participate in God's redemptive work.
4. **Foundation for Discipleship:** This encounter lays the groundwork for Peter's future leadership. His profound recognition of Jesus' identity and his own sinfulness provides a stable foundation for his unwavering commitment and eventual role as an apostle.
### Summary
The Greek verb `{{G1633}}` (ekchōréō), meaning "to depart out" or "to withdraw from," is uniquely employed in the New Testament in [[Luke 5:8]]. Here, Simon Peter, overcome by the miraculous display of Jesus' power, cries out for Jesus to "depart from me, for I am a sinful man." This single usage powerfully conveys Peter's immediate and profound recognition of Jesus' divine holiness and his own inherent sinfulness. Far from being a rejection, this desperate plea for separation underscores a moment of deep humility, awe, and self-awareness, which paradoxically serves as a critical turning point and a foundation for Peter's call to discipleship. It highlights the transformative encounter between human unworthiness and divine grace.
TRV