a prolonged form of a primary verb (obsolete except in certain tenses as an alternative of this) of uncertain affinity; to push (as wind, oars or dæmonical power):--carry, drive, row.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **elaúnō**, represented by `{{G1643}}`, is a verb that means to **push**, **drive**, or **row**. It is a prolonged form of a primary verb used to describe the application of force. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, conveying action driven by human effort, natural phenomena like wind, or demonic power.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1643}}` is used in several distinct contexts. It describes the physical exertion of the disciples as they were "**toiling** in **rowing**" against a contrary wind [[Mark 6:48]] and had "**rowed**" for a considerable distance on the Sea of Galilee [[John 6:19]]. The word also depicts the power of nature, as ships are "**driven** of fierce winds" [[James 3:4]]. On a metaphorical level, false teachers are described as "clouds that are **carried** with a tempest" [[2 Peter 2:17]], illustrating their instability. Finally, it portrays supernatural force, where a man possessed by an unclean spirit was "**driven** of the devil" into the wilderness [[Luke 8:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the forces at play when `{{G1643}}` is used:
* `{{G928}}` **basanízō** (to torture): This word is used to describe the disciples' state as they were "**toiling** in rowing" [[Mark 6:48]]. It emphasizes the immense struggle and torment involved in their effort to drive the boat forward.
* `{{G417}}` **ánemos** (wind): This is the force that acts upon objects being **driven**. Ships are "**driven** of fierce **winds**" [[James 3:4]], and the disciples' struggle was because the "**wind** was contrary unto them" [[Mark 6:48]].
* `{{G4884}}` **synarpázō** (to snatch together, i.e. seize): This term highlights the violent nature of the force. Before a man was "**driven** by the devil," the unclean spirit had often "**caught**" him [[Luke 8:29]], indicating a sudden and complete seizure of control.
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G1643}}` highlights several key themes about power and control.
* **Human Toil:** The word illustrates the limits of human strength against opposing forces. The disciples are seen "**toiling** in rowing" [[Mark 6:48]], a picture of exhausting effort that proves insufficient without divine intervention.
* **Spiritual Instability:** The description of false teachers as clouds "**carried** with a tempest" [[2 Peter 2:17]] uses `{{G1643}}` to create a powerful metaphor for being without spiritual grounding, pushed about by powerful and destructive influences.
* **Demonic Compulsion:** In its most severe usage, the word shows a complete loss of autonomy. The man who was "**driven** of the devil" [[Luke 8:29]] was not merely influenced but was physically compelled and controlled by a malevolent entity.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1643}}` is a dynamic verb that depicts a force being exerted. Whether describing the disciples' effort to **row**, a ship being **driven** by the wind, or a man being **driven** by a demon, it consistently portrays an agent of motion acting upon an object. Though rare, its usage provides a vivid illustration of toil, natural power, and the stark reality of spiritual oppression.
TRV