apparently accusative case of an obsolete derivative of (to "pierce"); through (as adverb or preposition), i.e. across:--beyond, farther (other) side, over.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **péran**, represented by `{{G4008}}`, functions as a preposition or adverb signifying movement or location **across**, **beyond**, or on the **other side**. It appears 23 times in 23 unique verses. Its primary use is to denote a geographical transition, typically over a body of water, indicating a journey from one point to another.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G4008}}` sets the scene for movement across key geographical landmarks. It is frequently used to describe Jesus and his disciples crossing a body of water, as when he commands them, "Let us pass over unto the **other side**" [[Mark 4:35]] of the lake [[Luke 8:22]]. The term also defines regions relative to the Jordan River, with people coming from "beyond **Jordan**" to hear Jesus ([[Matthew 4:25]], [[Mark 3:8]]). John the Baptist's ministry is located "beyond **Jordan**" ([[John 1:28]], [[John 10:40]]), and Jesus begins his final journey to Jerusalem from the coasts of Judaea "beyond **Jordan**" [[Matthew 19:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the action and context of crossing to the other side:
* `{{G1276}}` **diaperáō** (to cross entirely): This verb describes the complete action of crossing over. It is used when Jesus **passed over** again by ship unto the **other side** [[Mark 5:21]].
* `{{G1330}}` **diérchomai** (to traverse): This verb emphasizes the act of traveling across an area. Jesus uses it to command his disciples, "Let us **go over** unto the **other side** of the lake" [[Luke 8:22]].
* `{{G2446}}` **Iordánēs** (Jordan): As a major river in Palestine, the **Jordan** often serves as the specific geographical boundary that is crossed, with multiple accounts describing people and ministry taking place "beyond **Jordan**" [[John 3:26]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G4008}}` highlights several key themes in the Gospels.
* **Crossing Boundaries:** The word consistently marks a physical journey across a barrier, such as the Sea of Galilee [[John 6:1]], the Jordan River [[Matthew 4:15]], or the brook Cedron [[John 18:1]]. This movement often precedes a new phase of ministry or a significant event.
* **Ministry to the Gentiles:** Crossing to the "other side" frequently signifies a deliberate move into non-Jewish territories. Jesus travels into the country of the Gergesenes [[Matthew 8:28]] and the country of the Gadarenes [[Mark 5:1]], bringing his ministry to new populations.
* **Purposeful Movement:** Journeys described with `{{G4008}}` are not aimless. Jesus crosses over to escape the multitudes [[Matthew 14:22]], to teach in a new region [[Mark 10:1]], or to engage with those in need, such as the men possessed with devils [[Matthew 8:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4008}}` is more than a simple directional word. It is a key geographical marker that signifies transition and purposeful movement. By indicating a journey **beyond** a river or **across** a sea, it often signals a shift in the setting of Jesus's ministry, highlighting his intention to cross boundaries and bring his message to new lands and peoples on the "other side."
TRV