### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **porrhōtérō**, represented by `{{G4208}}`, is an adverb that means **further**, indicating a greater distance. It is an exceptionally rare term in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. Its function is to express the idea of continuing a journey beyond a specific point or destination.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G4208}}` occurs in the narrative of the disciples on the road to Emmaus after the resurrection. As they **drew nigh** `{{G1448}}` **unto** `{{G1519}}` the **village** `{{G2968}}` that was their destination, the resurrected Jesus, who was traveling with them unrecognized, **made as though** `{{G4364}}` he would have gone **further** [[Luke 24:28]]. The word is used to describe Jesus's feigned intention to continue his journey, a pivotal action in the encounter.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words used in the context of [[Luke 24:28]] help to illuminate the meaning of `{{G4208}}`:
* `{{G4198}}` **poreúomai** (to traverse, i.e. travel): This verb, meaning to **go** or journey, describes both the disciples' travel and Jesus's own pretended intention to continue onward. This same verb is used in the command to **go** and teach all nations [[Matthew 28:19]].
* `{{G4364}}` **prospoiéomai** (to do forward for oneself, i.e. pretend): This word clarifies the nature of Jesus's action, showing he only **made as though** he would continue. In the dossier, it is also used when Jesus wrote on the ground **as though he heard** his accusers not [[John 8:6]].
* `{{G1448}}` **engízō** (to make near, i.e. (reflexively) approach): This term provides a direct contrast to going "further." While the disciples **drew nigh** to their destination, Jesus acted as if he would move away. It is often used to declare that the kingdom of heaven is **at hand** [[Matthew 4:17]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{G4208}}` is a simple adverb, its singular use carries theological weight through the action it describes.
* **The Continuing Journey:** The intent to go **further** is expressed with the verb **poreúomai** `{{G4198}}`. This same word is used for Jesus's own mission to **go** unto the Father [[John 14:12]] and for the disciples' commission to **go** into all the world [[Mark 16:15]], linking the concept of traveling "further" to a divine purpose and mission.
* **An Invitation to Pursue:** Jesus's action to **make as though** `{{G4364}}` he would travel onward invites a response from his companions. This dynamic is mirrored in the instruction for believers to **draw nigh** `{{G1448}}` to God, which is met with the promise that he will **draw nigh** to them [[James 4:8]]. His feigned departure creates an opportunity for faith to be exercised.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4208}}` **porrhōtérō** is a specific adverb used once to mean **further**. Its importance comes not from a complex definition but from its unique role in the post-resurrection account in Luke. It captures the moment where Jesus tests his companions by pretending to continue his journey, illustrating that a journey with God may extend beyond our own expected destinations and often invites us to ask him to remain.
TRV