### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anaphérō**, represented by `{{G399}}`, means to take up, either literally or figuratively. Its usage includes the actions of bearing, bringing, carrying, leading, or offering up. It appears 12 times across 9 unique verses, highlighting its specific and significant role in key biblical events.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{G399}}` in scripture demonstrates two distinct but related applications. Literally, it describes a physical ascent, such as when Jesus **bringeth** his disciples **up** into a high mountain for the transfiguration ([[Matthew 17:1]], [[Mark 9:2]]). This physical "carrying up" culminates in the ascension, where Jesus was **carried up** into heaven [[Luke 24:51]]. Figuratively, the word is central to the concept of sacrifice. Christ himself **bare** our sins in his own body on the tree [[1 Peter 2:24]] and was offered to **bear** the sins of many [[Hebrews 9:28]]. This same term is used for Abraham when he **offered** Isaac on the altar [[James 2:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{G399}}` is used:
* `{{G2378}}` **thysía** (sacrifice): This is the object that is "offered up." Believers are called to offer spiritual **sacrifices** [[1 Peter 2:5]], and in the new covenant, this becomes a **sacrifice** of praise [[Hebrews 13:15]].
* `{{G4374}}` **prosphérō** (to bear towards): This word is used in conjunction with `{{G399}}` to describe Christ's work. Christ was **offered** (prosphérō) to **bear** (anaphérō) the sins of many, linking the act of presenting with the act of carrying [[Hebrews 9:28]].
* `{{G4152}}` **pneumatikós** (spiritual): This specifies the nature of the offerings believers bring. We are to offer up **spiritual** sacrifices, which are acceptable to God through Christ [[1 Peter 2:5]].
* `{{G3618}}` **oikodoméō** (to be a house-builder): Believers are first **built up** as a spiritual house and a holy priesthood, which qualifies them to then **offer up** spiritual sacrifices [[1 Peter 2:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G399}}` connects Christ's work with the believer's response.
* **Atoning Sacrifice:** The word is used to define Christ's substitutionary atonement. He didn't just take away sins, He actively **bare** them on the cross [[1 Peter 2:24]]. He fulfilled the priestly role by **offering up** himself once for all [[Hebrews 7:27]].
* **Priestly Offering:** Believers, as a holy **priesthood** `{{G2406}}`, participate in this theme by being called to **offer up** their own spiritual sacrifices [[1 Peter 2:5]]. This offering is not of animals, but of praise, which is the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name [[Hebrews 13:15]].
* **Divine Exaltation:** The literal sense of being "carried up" points to glorification. Jesus leads his disciples **up** a mountain to reveal His glory [[Mark 9:2]] and is himself **carried up** into heaven, signifying the completion of his earthly work [[Luke 24:51]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G399}}` is a powerful word that bridges the physical and the spiritual. It illustrates a clear progression from the literal act of carrying something upward to the profound theological reality of Christ bearing our sins and offering Himself as the ultimate sacrifice. This same action is then transferred to believers, who are called to offer up spiritual sacrifices, connecting our worship directly to the finished work of Christ.
TRV