### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pezēi**, represented by `{{G3979}}`, means to travel **on foot** or by walking. It appears 2 times in 2 verses in the Bible. This adverb describes a specific mode of travel, emphasizing movement by land, often in contrast to travel by ship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In both of its occurrences, `{{G3979}}` describes the determined actions of the crowds seeking Jesus. After Jesus departed by ship to a desert place, the people heard where he was going and "followed him **on foot** out of the cities" [[Matthew 14:13]]. Mark's account highlights the crowd's urgency, stating that they "ran **afoot** thither out of all cities, and outwent them," arriving at the destination before Jesus and his disciples [[Mark 6:33]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the action surrounding travel on foot:
* `{{G190}}` **akolouthéō** (follow): This word means to accompany, often as a disciple. It is used when the people **followed** Jesus on foot [[Matthew 14:13]]. It also carries the spiritual meaning of discipleship, as when Jesus calls people to take up their cross and **follow** him [[Luke 9:23]].
* `{{G4281}}` **proérchomai** (outgo): This means to go onward or precede. In [[Mark 6:33]], the crowd's haste is so great that they **outwent** Jesus's boat. The word is also used to describe Judas going before the multitude [[Luke 22:47]].
* `{{G4936}}` **syntréchō** (run together): This term signifies rushing together or assembling hastily. It is explicitly linked with traveling afoot in [[Mark 6:33]], where the crowds **ran** from all the cities to reach Jesus.
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G3979}}` highlights several key themes in the gospel narratives:
* **Urgency of the Crowd:** The use of `{{G3979}}` in conjunction with words like "ran" `{{G4936}}` and "outwent" `{{G4281}}` illustrates the immense desire and urgency of the people to be near Jesus. They were willing to travel great distances by land to intercept him [[Mark 6:33]].
* **Contrast in Movement:** There is a notable contrast between Jesus departing by ship for solitude and the multitudes pursuing him **on foot**. This emphasizes the people's collective determination, as they chose a more strenuous and direct land route to reach him [[Matthew 14:13]].
* **Physical Pursuit:** Traveling **on foot** was a direct and personal effort. The crowds' willingness to leave their cities and undertake this journey shows the powerful draw of Jesus's presence and ministry ([[Matthew 14:13]]; [[Mark 6:33]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3979}}` is a specific adverb that, while appearing only twice, provides a vivid detail in the gospel narratives. It defines the physical means by which the crowds pursued Jesus, highlighting their collective determination and eagerness. The act of traveling **on foot** demonstrates a commitment that illustrates the profound impact Jesus had on the people who sought him out.
TRV