### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G1704 emperipatéō is a compound word formed from the preposition ἐν (en, `{{G1722}}`), meaning "in" or "among," and the verb περιπατέω (peripatéō, `{{G4043}}`), meaning "to walk around" or "to conduct oneself." The literal sense of emperipatéō is "to walk in" or "to perambulate within a place." The prefix ἐν intensifies or specifies the location of the "walking," indicating an intimate, active presence *within* or *among* a group or context, rather than merely passing through.
Figuratively, emperipatéō conveys the idea of being intimately "occupied among persons" or "living within" a community in a profound and dynamic way. It implies a close, abiding, and purposeful presence, suggesting active engagement and fellowship. While περιπατέω (peripatéō, `{{G4043}}`) often metaphorically describes one's manner of life or conduct, the addition of ἐν in emperipatéō specifically emphasizes the *immanence* and *active indwelling* of the subject within the specified context or among the people. It signifies a deeper, more committed form of "being present with" or "moving within."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb G1704 emperipatéō occurs only once in the New Testament, found in [[2 Corinthians 6:16]]. In this pivotal verse, the Apostle Paul writes: "For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said: 'I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they will be My people.'"
The phrase "I will dwell in them and walk among them" (Greek: ἐνοικήσω ἐν αὐτοῖς καὶ ἐμπεριπατήσω) is a direct quotation or strong allusion to Old Testament covenant promises, particularly [[Leviticus 26:12]] and [[Ezekiel 37:27]].
* In [[Leviticus 26:12]], God declares, "I will walk among you and be your God, and you will be my people." The Hebrew verb used here is הָלַךְ (halak, `{{H1980}}`) in the Hithpael stem ("to walk, go, behave"), combined with the preposition בְּתוֹךְ (betokh, "in the midst of"). This perfectly captures the nuance of emperipatéō, signifying God's active, intimate presence in the midst of His covenant people.
* While [[Ezekiel 37:27]] focuses on God's "dwelling place" (מִשְׁכָּן, mishkan, `{{H4908}}`) being with them, the overall theme of God's immanent presence among His people is consistent with the sentiment expressed in emperipatéō.
In its sole New Testament context, emperipatéō underscores God's active and personal presence within the community of believers. Paul uses this Old Testament promise to reinforce his exhortation for the Corinthians to separate themselves from idolatry and unrighteousness, arguing that as the "temple of the living God," they are the sacred space where God Himself chooses to dwell and move. This active "walking among" signifies not a distant observation but an intimate, protective, and relational involvement in the lives of His people, upholding the covenant relationship.
### Related Words & Concepts
* περιπατέω (peripatéō, `{{G4043}}`): The root verb, meaning "to walk," often used metaphorically for one's conduct or manner of life. emperipatéō builds upon this by adding the dimension of immanent presence.
* ἐν (en, `{{G1722}}`): The preposition "in, among, within." Its addition to περιπατέω is crucial for understanding the intensive and localized aspect of God's presence.
* οἰκέω (oikeō, `{{G3611}}`): "to dwell, inhabit." This verb is used alongside emperipatéō in [[2 Corinthians 6:16]] ("I will dwell in them"). While οἰκέω emphasizes static residence, emperipatéō complements it by highlighting the *dynamic* and *active* nature of God's indwelling presence.
* ναός (naos, `{{G3485}}`): "temple, sanctuary." In [[2 Corinthians 6:16]], believers are identified as the ναός of God, the sacred space where God not only resides but also actively "walks among" His people.
* **Old Testament Concepts:** The concept of God's active presence among His people is deeply rooted in the Old Testament, manifested in the Tabernacle and Temple (e.g., שְׁכִינָה, Shekinah, the dwelling presence of God), the covenant relationship (e.g., [[Exodus 29:45]]), and the promise of fellowship with a holy God.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of emperipatéō is profound, primarily revealing the nature of God's relationship with His people:
1. **Divine Immanence and Intimacy:** The word powerfully conveys God's deep commitment to be actively present *among* and *within* His people. It speaks of a God who is not distant or aloof but intimately involved in the lives of His covenant community. His "walking among" them signifies a dynamic, relational intimacy, a desire for fellowship, and active participation in their existence.
2. **Covenant Faithfulness and Fulfillment:** By quoting or alluding to Old Testament promises, emperipatéō in [[2 Corinthians 6:16]] underscores God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant. What was promised to Israel in the Old Covenant—God's dwelling and walking in their midst—is now being fulfilled in the New Covenant through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit within believers.
3. **Believers as God's Living Temple:** The use of emperipatéō reinforces the radical truth that the community of believers is the living ναός (naos, `{{G3485}}`) of God. God's presence is not confined to a physical edifice but resides actively within His people, transforming them into a sacred space where He moves, acts, and reveals His glory. This elevates the spiritual status of the church profoundly.
4. **Call to Holiness and Separation:** The immediate context of [[2 Corinthians 6:16]] ("What agreement has the temple of God with idols?") directly links God's active, holy presence with the imperative for believers to live lives of purity and separation from idolatry and defilement. God's "walking among" His people necessitates their holiness, as His sacred presence cannot abide with unholiness. It implies a reciprocal commitment: if God is actively present, His people must reflect His character.
### Summary
G1704 emperipatéō is a rare but highly significant Greek verb meaning "to walk in" or "to walk among," conveying an intimate, active, and abiding presence. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[2 Corinthians 6:16]] directly echoes Old Testament covenant promises, particularly from [[Leviticus 26:12]], highlighting God's profound commitment to be dynamically present *within* and *among* His people. This word underscores God's immanence, His unwavering covenant faithfulness, and the truth that believers are now His living temple. The presence of God "walking among" His people serves as a powerful theological foundation for the call to holiness, separation from defilement, and a life of intimate fellowship with the living God.
TRV