### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **metaírō**, represented by `{{G3332}}`, is a specific term meaning **to depart** or remove oneself from a location. Derived from μετά and αἴρω, it is used to describe the act of physically leaving a place. It appears only **2 times** in **2 verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3332}}` is used exclusively to describe the movements of Jesus, marking the conclusion of a period of teaching. After Jesus had finished a series of parables, the scripture states he **departed** thence [[Matthew 13:53]]. In a similar context, after he had finished other sayings, he **departed** from Galilee to continue his ministry in Judaea [[Matthew 19:1]]. The word signifies a clear and deliberate transition from one location to the next.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the action surrounding departure:
* `{{G5055}}` **teléō** (to end, i.e. complete, execute, conclude, discharge (a debt)): This word for finishing an action directly precedes **metaírō** in both of its biblical occurrences. It emphasizes that the departure occurs only after a specific task is concluded ([[Matthew 13:53]], [[Matthew 19:1]]), a concept powerfully expressed when Jesus declares on the cross, "It is **finished**" [[John 19:30]].
* `{{G2064}}` **érchomai** (to come or go): As a counterpart to departure, this word describes the arrival at a new destination. After Jesus departed from Galilee, the text notes that he **came** into the coasts of Judaea [[Matthew 19:1]]. This word also carries profound spiritual meaning, as when Jesus explains that no man **cometh** unto the Father but by him [[John 14:6]].
* `{{G1096}}` **gínomai** (to cause to be, i.e. to become (come into being)): Translated as "it came to pass" in the verses where **metaírō** appears, this word sets the narrative stage for the action. It signifies that an event has occurred or come into being, such as when the Word **was made** flesh [[John 1:14]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{G3332}}` is a simple action word, its usage carries theological implications related to the deliberate nature of Christ's ministry.
* **Completion of a Mission:** The use of `{{G3332}}` is always linked to the completion of a specific teaching mission ([[Matthew 13:53]], [[Matthew 19:1]]). This connects physical departure with the fulfillment of a divine purpose, showing that Jesus’s movements were structured around finishing his given work.
* **Purposeful Transition:** Departing is presented not as an end, but as a transition to the next phase of ministry. When Jesus **departed** from Galilee, he immediately **came** into Judaea [[Matthew 19:1]], demonstrating a guided and forward-moving progression in his earthly work.
* **Narrative Marker:** The phrase "it came to pass... he departed" serves as a structural marker in Matthew's gospel, signaling the conclusion of a major discourse and the beginning of the subsequent narrative.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3332}}` **metaírō** is a precise term for **to depart**. Though used only twice, it specifically chronicles the movements of Jesus. Its use, always paired with the completion of a teaching, frames his departures not as simple travel but as purposeful transitions in his divine ministry. The word functions as a key marker, concluding one chapter of Christ's work on earth before another begins.
TRV