The Greek word éxodos, represented by G1841, is defined as an exit, or figuratively, death, decease, or departing. It is a rare term, appearing only 3 times in 3 unique verses, yet each instance carries significant weight, pointing to a departure of great importance.
In its biblical usage, G1841 marks pivotal moments of transition. On the Mount of Transfiguration, Moses and Elijah appeared G3700 in glory and spake G3004 with Jesus about His decease G1841 which He was to accomplish G4137 at Jerusalem Luke 9:31. The word is also used to describe the foundational event of the Old Testament, where Joseph, by faith as he died G5053, made mention of the departing G1841 of Israel from Egypt Hebrews 11:22. Finally, Peter uses the term to refer to his own impending death, stating he will endeavour G4704 to ensure believers have his teachings in remembrance G3420 after his decease G1841 2 Peter 1:15.
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of G1841:
- G5053 teleutáō (to finish life... i.e. expire (demise)): This term for dying is used in the same breath as G1841 in Hebrews 11:22, where Joseph, as he died, spoke of the future departing of Israel. It grounds the forward-looking faith in the reality of a life ending.
- G4137 plēróō (to... finish (a period or task), verify (or coincide with a prediction)): This word is key to understanding Jesus's death. His decease was not a tragedy but something to be accomplished G4137, framing it as the fulfillment of a divine plan Luke 9:31.
- G4704 spoudázō (to use speed, i.e. to make effort, be prompt or earnest): Peter connects his coming decease to his urgent work, stating he will endeavour G4704 to establish a lasting legacy of remembrance for the church 2 Peter 1:15.
The theological significance of G1841 is concentrated in its specific applications:
- A Preordained Fulfillment: In reference to Christ, His decease is presented not as an end but as a purposeful mission to be accomplished G4137. This highlights the sovereign plan of God in the death of His Son Luke 9:31.
- A Redemptive Exit: The term connects the concept of death to national salvation. The departing G1841 of Israel from Egypt, foreseen by Joseph, is a cornerstone of God's redemptive work in the Old Testament Hebrews 11:22.
- A Catalyst for Legacy: Peter's use of decease shows that the end of an apostle's life is directly linked to the continuation of the faith. His departure motivates his earnest effort to ensure the truth is remembered 2 Peter 1:15.
In summary, G1841 is a term loaded with purpose. Though used sparingly, it transforms the concept of an "exit" into a significant, planned event within God's will. It describes the accomplished death of Christ, the foundational departure of a nation from bondage, and an apostle's transition that secures a theological inheritance. The word consistently points to a departure that is not an end in itself, but a pivotal moment that fulfills a greater divine purpose.
TRV