### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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.
TRV