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.
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.
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.
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.
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