### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anabaínō**, represented by `{{G305}}`, means **to go up**. It appears 88 times across 77 unique verses in the Bible. Its base definition, from ἀνά and the base of βάσις, encompasses a wide range of upward movement, whether literal or figurative, and can be translated as to arise, ascend, climb, go up, grow up, or spring up.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G305}}` is used to describe physical, spiritual, and metaphorical ascent. It frequently denotes the literal act of traveling to a higher elevation, such as Jesus going **up** into a mountain to pray [[Matthew 14:23]] or people going **up** to Jerusalem for a feast [[John 2:13]]. Figuratively, it describes prayers and alms that have **come up** for a memorial before God [[Acts 10:4]]. The word carries immense theological weight in describing Christ’s ascension, as when he tells Mary, "I **ascend** unto my Father" [[John 20:17]], and when it is stated that he who descended is the same that **ascended up** far above all heavens [[Ephesians 4:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the specific nuances of movement and ascent:
* `{{G2597}}` **katabaínō** (to descend): As the direct opposite of anabaínō, this word is often used in parallel to illustrate a complete movement between realms. This is seen with the angels of God **ascending** and **descending** upon the Son of man [[John 1:51]].
* `{{G837}}` **auxánō** (to grow, increase): This word is used alongside anabaínō to describe organic growth. In the parable of the sower, seed on good ground yields fruit that **sprang up** `{{G305}}` and **increased** `{{G837}}` [[Mark 4:8]].
* `{{G1525}}` **eisérchomai** (to enter): This word for entering provides a contrast to the improper ascent of climbing. A thief does not **enter** by the door but **climbeth up** some other way [[John 10:1]].
* `{{G1910}}` **epibaínō** (to mount, ascend, embark): This term can describe the initial act of coming into a place or mounting a vessel before a larger journey of ascent, such as when Festus **was come** into the province and then **ascended** to Jerusalem [[Acts 25:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G305}}` is profound, illustrating key spiritual concepts through the action of "going up."
* **Christ's Exaltation:** The word is central to the doctrine of Christ's ascension. His act of **ascending** confirms His divinity and victory, signifying His return to the Father and His place of authority far above all heavens [[Ephesians 4:8]].
* **The Act of Worship:** Pilgrimages to Jerusalem are described as **going up**, framing worship as an ascent toward God's presence [[Acts 3:1]]. Similarly, the smoke of incense with the prayers of the saints **ascended up** before God, linking worship with a pleasing offering [[Revelation 8:4]].
* **Spiritual Revelation:** To `{{G305}}` can mean to access a higher plane of understanding. In Revelation, John is commanded to "**Come up** hither" to be shown things which must be hereafter [[Revelation 4:1]]. It also describes concepts that have not **entered** into the heart of man, which God has prepared [[1 Corinthians 2:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G305}}` is a dynamic verb that transitions from the simple physical act of climbing a mountain or traveling to a city to the highest theological truths. It illustrates Christ's ultimate journey of ascension and exaltation, the nature of worship as an approach to God, and the reception of divine revelation. Through **anabaínō**, the Bible uses the universal concept of upward movement to explain our relationship to both the physical and heavenly realms.
TRV