### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **antiparérchomai**, represented by `{{G492}}`, means **to go along opposite:--pass by on the other side**. It is formed from the words ἀντί and παρέρχομαι. This specific term appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, making its usage highly focused and significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{G492}}` is found exclusively in the Gospel of Luke, where it describes a deliberate act of avoidance. In the narrative, a **priest** `{{G2409}}` is traveling down a **way** `{{G3598}}` and, upon seeing a man, he **passed by on the other side** [[Luke 10:31]]. Immediately after, a **Levite** `{{G3019}}` arrives at the **place** `{{G5117}}`, looks at the man, and **likewise** `{{G3668}}` **passed by on the other side** [[Luke 10:32]]. In both instances, the action is a conscious choice to move away from someone in need.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the action of `{{G492}}`:
* `{{G2409}}` **hiereús** (priest): This identifies the first individual who **passed by on the other side**, a figure of religious authority whose actions are scrutinized in the passage [[Luke 10:31]].
* `{{G3019}}` **Leuḯtēs** (Levite): This identifies the second individual, another religious figure who follows the priest's example of avoidance [[Luke 10:32]].
* `{{G1492}}` **eídō** (to see): This verb is critical as it precedes the action of `{{G492}}`. Both the priest and the Levite **saw** or **looked** on the man before deciding to pass by, indicating their action was not from ignorance but a deliberate choice ([[Luke 10:31]], [[Luke 10:32]]).
* `{{G3598}}` **hodós** (road; by implication, a progress): This word establishes the setting, a public **way** where the encounter and subsequent avoidance occur [[Luke 10:31]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G492}}` is centered on the contrast between religious status and righteous action.
* **Hypocrisy of Position:** The word is used to indict religious figures—a **priest** `{{G2409}}` and a **Levite** `{{G3019}}`—who fail to act compassionately. Their deliberate avoidance critiques a faith that does not result in merciful works.
* **The Sin of Omission:** The act of passing by on the other side is a clear example of a sin of omission. After seeing the situation `{{G1492}}`, the choice was made not to act, highlighting that indifference can be as condemning as a malicious act.
* **Failure to Show Mercy:** The action of `{{G492}}` stands in direct opposition to the principle of showing **mercy** `{{G1656}}`, a quality God desires [[Matthew 9:13]]. The story concludes by affirming the one who "shewed **mercy**" as the example to follow [[Luke 10:37]], directly condemning the choice to **pass by on the other side**.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G492}}` **antiparérchomai** is a precise and convicting term. Though used only twice, its context in Luke provides a timeless lesson. It does not mean simply to pass someone, but to actively move to the opposite side to avoid them. It captures the essence of religious hypocrisy and the moral failure of indifference, serving as a powerful biblical illustration of the gap between seeing a need and choosing to ignore it.
TRV