### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **metabaínō**, represented by `{{G3327}}`, means **to change place** and is often translated as depart, go, pass, or remove. It appears **12 times** across **11 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is used to describe both literal, physical movement and a profound, spiritual transition from one state of being to another.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal sense, `{{G3327}}` describes the physical movements of Jesus and his disciples during their ministry. Jesus **departed** from one place to another to teach and preach in various cities ([[Matthew 11:1]], [[Matthew 12:9]]). The word is also used for instructions given to the disciples, such as the command to not **go** from house to house but to remain in one place [[Luke 10:7]]. Figuratively, it illustrates the power of faith, where Jesus states that with faith like a mustard seed, one could command a mountain to **remove** [[Matthew 17:20]]. The most significant use of `{{G3327}}` is theological, describing a believer's journey from a state of spiritual death to life. Those who believe have **passed** from death unto life [[John 5:24]], a transition that is evidenced by love for the brethren [[1 John 3:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of movement and position:
* `{{G5217}}` **hypágō** (to lead (oneself) under, i.e. withdraw or retire... go (a-)way): This word is often used for departing or going away. It appears alongside `{{G3327}}` when Jesus' brothers urge him to **depart** and **go** into Judaea [[John 7:3]].
* `{{G2064}}` **érchomai** (to come or go): This general term for movement is frequently used to describe someone arriving at a new location after departing. After Jesus **departed** from a place, he **went** into their synagogue [[Matthew 12:9]].
* `{{G3306}}` **ménō** (to stay... abide, continue, dwell, endure): As an antonym, this word highlights the opposite of departing. The disciples were instructed to **remain** in a house and not **go** from place to place [[Luke 10:7]], and the one who does not love **abideth** in death, in contrast to those who have passed into life [[1 John 3:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3327}}` is primarily centered on the believer's spiritual transformation.
* **The Great Transition:** The word's most profound application is the passage from spiritual death to eternal life. This is not a future event but a present reality for the one who believes in Christ and the Father who sent him [[John 5:24]]. This transition is demonstrated outwardly through love for other believers [[1 John 3:14]].
* **The Power of Faith:** Jesus uses `{{G3327}}` to illustrate the incredible potential of faith. The command for a mountain to **remove** shows that faith can bring about change that seems physically impossible [[Matthew 17:20]].
* **Christ's Redemptive Journey:** The term describes Jesus' own purposeful departure from this world to the Father [[John 13:1]]. This was not an escape but a necessary transition to complete his redemptive work and return to glory.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3327}}` is a dynamic word that encompasses more than simple physical travel. While it describes the literal journeys of Christ and others, its true significance lies in its depiction of spiritual movement. It defines the foundational Christian experience of passing from a state of condemnation and death into a new reality of everlasting life, a transition made possible by faith in Jesus Christ.
TRV