### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **helkýō**, represented by `{{G1670}}`, means **to drag** or **draw**, both literally and figuratively. It appears **8 times** in **8 unique verses** of the Bible. The word conveys a sense of pulling, whether it is a physical object like a net, a weapon being drawn, or the spiritual drawing of a person toward God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1670}}` is used to describe both divine action and human force. Theologically, it is used to describe the Father drawing individuals to Christ as a prerequisite for salvation [[John 6:44]]. Jesus also uses the term, stating that when he is "lifted up from the earth," he will **draw** all men to himself [[John 12:32]]. In a more literal and forceful sense, the word describes the physical act of dragging people. Rich men are depicted as those who **draw** the poor before judgment seats [[James 2:6]], and hostile crowds **drew** Paul and Silas into the marketplace [[Acts 16:19]]. It is also used for drawing a sword [[John 18:10]] and for the great effort of hauling a net full of fish ([[John 21:6]], [[John 21:11]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{G1670}}` appears:
* `{{G1949}}` **epilambánomai** (to seize... catch, lay hold upon): This word often precedes the act of dragging. In Acts, opponents first **caught** Paul and Silas before they **drew** them before the rulers [[Acts 16:19]].
* `{{G2616}}` **katadynasteúō** (to exercise dominion against, i.e. oppress): This highlights the malicious intent behind some forms of drawing. Rich men **oppress** the poor and **draw** them to court [[James 2:6]].
* `{{G5312}}` **hypsóō** (to elevate... exalt, lift up): This term is linked to the spiritual power of drawing. Christ states that if he is **lifted up**, he will **draw** all men to himself [[John 12:32]].
* `{{G3817}}` **paíō** (to hit... smite, strike): This describes the action that can follow the drawing of a weapon. Peter **drew** his sword and then **smote** the high priest's servant [[John 18:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1670}}` is significant, particularly in its figurative uses.
* **Divine Initiative in Salvation:** The statement that no one can come to Christ unless the Father **draws** him establishes God's essential and primary role in a person's salvation [[John 6:44]].
* **The Power of the Cross:** Christ's ability to **draw** all people is directly connected to His being "lifted up," a reference to His crucifixion and exaltation. This act is the magnetic center of salvation history [[John 12:32]].
* **Spiritual Drawing vs. Physical Coercion:** The word's usage starkly contrasts the Father's spiritual drawing with the violent, oppressive dragging of humans by other humans, such as taking apostles before rulers [[Acts 16:19]] or the poor before judgment seats [[James 2:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1670}}` is a dynamic verb that encompasses a range of actions from physical force to profound spiritual influence. It captures the literal effort of pulling a heavy net, the sudden violence of drawing a sword, and the oppressive act of dragging someone to judgment. Most importantly, it serves as a key theological term to describe the divine power by which God the Father and the exalted Christ bring individuals to salvation.
TRV