The Greek word anaspáō, represented by G385, is formed from ἀνά and σπάω and means to take up or extricate. Its definitions include "draw up, pull out." Though specific in its meaning, it appears only 4 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible.
The word is used in two distinct contexts. In Luke, it illustrates a point of law and mercy, where Jesus asks who would not immediately pull an ox G1016 or ass G3688 out of a pit G5421 on the sabbath day G2250 Luke 14:5. In Acts, the word describes a supernatural event during Peter's vision, where the sheet containing all manner of animals was drawn up again into G1519 heaven G3772 after being shown to him three times Acts 11:10.
Several related words clarify the context of G385:
- G1706 empíptō (to fall on): This word describes the initial crisis in Luke's account, where an animal has fallen into a pit, necessitating the action of being pulled out Luke 14:5. It literally means to be entrapped by.
- G5421 phréar (a pit): This defines the location of entrapment, a hole in the ground or well from which rescue is required Luke 14:5. Figuratively, it can also refer to an abyss.
- G3772 ouranós (the sky; by extension, heaven): This specifies the destination of the action in Acts. The sheet is not merely lifted, but drawn up into heaven, indicating a divine retrieval Acts 11:10.
The theological significance of G385 is seen in its application to both earthly and divine actions.
- Mercy over Regulation: Its use in Luke 14:5 establishes a principle of compassionate action. The act to pull an animal from peril is presented as a self-evident responsibility that overrides strict observance of the sabbath G4521.
- Divine Sovereignty: In Acts 11:10, the term is used for a divine action. The vision is drawn up by a heavenly power, demonstrating God's control over revelation—both in its presentation and its withdrawal.
- The Act of Rescue: At its core, G385 signifies rescue. Whether it is a physical extrication from a pit G5421 or the conclusion of a vision by drawing it back into G1519 heaven G3772, the word denotes a decisive upward movement from a state of being below.
In summary, G385 is a potent verb describing the act of pulling or drawing up. While its usage is infrequent, it powerfully illustrates both a principle of immediate, compassionate rescue in the physical world Luke 14:5 and the sovereign action of God in the spiritual realm Acts 11:10. The word connects the duty to extricate the fallen with the power of God to retrieve what is His.
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