### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ἀναλαμβάνω** (analambánō), represented by `{{G353}}`, is primarily defined as **to take up**. It appears **14 times** across **13 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is derived from its component parts, ἀνά (up) and λαμβάνω (to take), and is used to describe actions of receiving up, taking in, or taking unto oneself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G353}}` has two principal areas of application. Its most significant use is to describe the ascension of Christ, as in Mark's account where Jesus "was **received up** into heaven" [[Mark 16:19]]. The angels at the ascension repeat this, referring to "this same Jesus, which is **taken up** from you into heaven" [[Acts 1:11]]. The word is also used to command believers to take on spiritual responsibility, such as the instruction to "**take unto you** the whole armour of God" [[Ephesians 6:13]]. In a more literal sense, it describes taking a person into one's company, as when soldiers "**took** Paul" to bring him to Antipatris [[Acts 23:31]] or when the Israelites idolatrously "**took up** the tabernacle of Moloch" [[Acts 7:43]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and purpose behind the action of `{{G353}}`:
* `{{G436}}` **anthístēmi** (to stand against, i.e. oppose): This word shows the reason for taking up God's armor, which is to be able "**to withstand** in the evil day" [[Ephesians 6:13]].
* `{{G2523}}` **kathízō** (to seat down... to sit): This term often follows the action of `{{G353}}` in relation to Christ's ascension. After He was **received up** `{{G353}}`, he "**sat** on the right hand of God" [[Mark 16:19]].
* `{{G71}}` **ágō** (to lead; by implication, to bring): This action is paired with `{{G353}}` in a direct command where Paul instructs Timothy to "**Take** Mark, and **bring him** with thee" [[2 Timothy 4:11]].
* `{{G1299}}` **diatássō** (to arrange thoroughly... institute, prescribe): This highlights that the action of taking someone in can be the fulfillment of a command, as when Paul’s companions planned to **take in** `{{G353}}` Paul, because he had so **appointed** `{{G1299}}` [[Acts 20:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G353}}` is centered on Christ's exaltation and the believer's response.
* **Christ's Ascension and Glorification:** The word is a key term for the ascension, marking the completion of Jesus' earthly ministry. The mystery of godliness in [[1 Timothy 3:16]] culminates with Christ being "**received up** into glory."
* **Active Spiritual Readiness:** Believers are not passive observers but are called to an active role. The command to "**taking** the shield of faith" [[Ephesians 6:16]] uses `{{G353}}` to emphasize the personal responsibility to prepare for spiritual warfare.
* **Divine and Human Action:** The word illustrates both divine action, such as the heavenly vessel being "**received up** again into heaven" [[Acts 10:16]], and human action done in obedience, such as ordaining a new apostle to be a witness until the day Jesus was "**taken up**" [[Acts 1:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G353}}` carries a meaning that moves from the literal to the profoundly theological. It describes the physical act of taking a person or object, but more importantly, it is the specific verb used to document Christ's ascension into glory. It also serves as a command for believers to actively take up their spiritual defenses, linking the finished work of Christ to the ongoing duty of the faithful.
TRV