### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anapíptō**, represented by `{{G377}}`, means to fall back, lie down, or lean back. It is most frequently translated as to **sit down**, particularly in the context of a meal. It appears 11 times across 10 unique verses, often describing a physical posture that precedes an important teaching or miraculous event.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G377}}` is used in several key contexts. It is the verb used when Jesus commands the great crowds to **sit down** before He miraculously feeds them ([[Matthew 15:35]]; [[Mark 8:6]]). In these scenes, the people **sat down** in an orderly fashion on the ground or grass before receiving nourishment ([[Mark 6:40]]; [[John 6:10]]). The word also portrays intimacy and fellowship, as seen when the disciple whom Jesus loved **leaned** on his breast at supper [[John 21:20]] and when Jesus **sat down** with the twelve apostles for the Last Supper [[Luke 22:14]]. It is also used in a parable to illustrate humility, where a guest is advised to **sit down** in the lowest room at a feast [[Luke 14:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{G377}}` is used:
* `{{G2753}}` **keleúō** (to incite by word, i.e. order): This verb often precedes the action of `anapíptō`. Jesus **commanded** the multitude to **sit down** before the feeding of the four thousand [[Matthew 15:35]].
* `{{G709}}` **aristáō** (to take the principle meal): This word establishes the setting for sitting down. When a Pharisee besought Jesus to **dine** with him, Jesus went in and **sat down to meat** [[Luke 11:37]].
* `{{G4873}}` **synanákeimai** (to recline in company with (at a meal)): This describes the communal nature of the action. The parable of the wedding feast speaks of receiving honor in the presence of those who **sit at meat** with you [[Luke 14:10]].
* `{{G4320}}` **prosanabaínō** (to ascend farther, i.e. be promoted (take an upper (more honorable) seat)): This action serves as the reward for the humility expressed by `anapíptō`. The one who sits in the lowest place is invited to **go up** higher [[Luke 14:10]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G377}}` is found in the postures it represents.
* **Obedience and Receptivity:** Before receiving the miraculous provision of bread and fish, the crowds had to first obey the command to **sit down**. This action demonstrated their trust and prepared them to receive what Christ would provide [[John 6:10]].
* **Humility:** The parable in Luke's gospel uses the act of choosing where to **sit down** as a central illustration of humility versus pride. Taking the lower seat is a physical act representing a spiritual posture that God honors [[Luke 14:10]].
* **Intimacy and Fellowship:** The act of reclining or sitting down for a meal was a sign of fellowship. This is seen when Jesus **sat down** with his apostles [[Luke 22:14]] and most personally when John **leaned** on Jesus' breast at supper [[John 21:20]].
* **Rest and Instruction:** After performing the humble act of washing the disciples' feet, Jesus **was set down** again before delivering a crucial teaching, marking a shift from service to instruction [[John 13:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G377}}` is more than a simple verb of motion. It consistently portrays a posture of humility, obedience, and fellowship. Whether it is a crowd preparing to be fed, a disciple leaning on his Lord, or a guest choosing the lowest seat, **anapíptō** shows that the physical act of sitting down often precedes a moment of divine provision, honor, or intimate communion.
TRV