adverb comparative of πόῤῥω; further, i.e. a greater distance:--farther.
Transliteration:porrhōtérō
Pronunciation:por-rho-ter'-o
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb G4208 (ποῤῥωτέρω, transliterated as *porrhōtérō*) is the comparative form of G4207 (πόῤῥω, *porrhō*), which means "far off," "at a distance." Consequently, ποῤῥωτέρω signifies "farther," "at a greater distance," or "more remotely." It conveys a sense of increased or extended distance, implying either movement to a point further away or being situated at a greater remove than a previous or comparative reference point. Unlike a simple statement of distance, the comparative form emphasizes a progression or relative increase in separation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ποῤῥωτέρω appears only once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of Luke:
* **[[Luke 24:28]]**: "And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and he made as though he would have gone *further*."
In this sole occurrence, the word describes Jesus' action as he walked with the two disciples on the road to Emmaus. As they approached their destination, Jesus "made as though he would have gone farther" (ἐποιήσατο ποῤῥωτέρω πορεύεσθαι). This was not a literal intention to continue traveling, but a deliberate gesture or feigned movement. Jesus' pretense of continuing "farther" served as a subtle test or invitation, prompting the disciples to urge Him to stay with them. The word highlights the dynamic nature of their journey and Jesus' control over the unfolding revelation of His resurrected self. It underscores a moment of decision for the disciples, where their desire for His presence was elicited by His feigned departure.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is its positive form, G4207 (πόῤῥω, *porrhō*), meaning "far" or "at a distance." This base word is used in various contexts to denote physical distance (e.g., [[Mark 8:3]] "faint by the way," [[Luke 15:20]] "yet a great way off") or even conceptual distance (e.g., [[Acts 22:21]] "send thee far hence unto the Gentiles"). ποῤῥωτέρω specifically adds the comparative nuance of "farther."
Other Greek words that convey distance include G3112 (μακράν, *makran*), which also means "far" or "at a great distance" (e.g., [[Matthew 26:58]] "followed him afar off"). While μακράν often implies a significant, general distance, ποῤῥωτέρω emphasizes the comparative aspect – moving *beyond* a certain point or *more* distant. The concept of journey, separation, and progression are inherent in the semantic field of these terms.
### Theological Significance
Though occurring but once, ποῤῥωτέρω in [[Luke 24:28]] holds significant theological weight within its specific narrative context. Jesus' action of feigning to go "farther" is an integral part of His post-resurrection strategy of revelation.
1. **Divine Incognito and Invitation:** Jesus' initial concealment of His identity and His subsequent feigned departure demonstrate a divine strategy. He does not impose Himself, but rather creates a scenario that invites a human response. His willingness to go "farther" prompts the disciples to "constrain him" to stay, revealing their longing for His presence. This highlights the relational nature of God's interaction with humanity, often requiring an act of invitation or desire from the human side for deeper communion.
2. **Gradual Revelation:** The Emmaus road encounter is a prime example of Jesus' gradual unveiling of His resurrected self. The word ποῤῥωτέρω marks a critical juncture in this process, where the disciples' spiritual eyes are poised to be opened. The "farther" journey symbolizes the potential for continued spiritual blindness if they had not invited Him in.
3. **The Heart's Desire:** The disciples' plea, "Abide with us," in response to Jesus' feigned departure, underscores the importance of a heart that desires fellowship with the Lord. The word ποῤῥωτέρω thus serves as a subtle catalyst for a profound spiritual breakthrough, leading to the recognition of Jesus in the breaking of bread. It speaks to the truth that God often waits for our earnest invitation before fully revealing Himself.
### Summary
The Greek word G4208 (ποῤῥωτέρω) carries the precise meaning of "farther" or "at a greater distance," functioning as the comparative form of G4207 (πόῤῥω). Its singular appearance in [[Luke 24:28]] is particularly poignant, describing Jesus' feigned intention to continue His journey beyond Emmaus. This seemingly simple action, highlighted by the word ποῤῥωτέρω, serves as a crucial dramatic and theological device. It underscores Jesus' method of post-resurrection revelation, inviting the disciples to actively desire His presence and fellowship, leading to the pivotal moment of recognition. Thus, while numerically rare, ποῤῥωτέρω is profoundly significant in illuminating the dynamic and invitational nature of divine encounter.
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