from ὑπό and ἄγω; to lead (oneself) under, i.e. withdraw or retire (as if sinking out of sight), literally or figuratively:--depart, get hence, go (a-)way.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G5217}}` (hypágō) is a compound word derived from the preposition ὑπό (hypó, meaning "under" or "below") and the verb ἄγω (ágō, meaning "to lead" or "to go"). This etymological foundation suggests a nuanced sense of movement: "to lead oneself under," which naturally extends to "to withdraw," "to retire," or "to go away" in a manner that might imply a less conspicuous or more definitive departure than a simple "go." The base definition provided, "to lead (oneself) under, i.e. withdraw or retire (as if sinking out of sight), literally or figuratively," captures this essence. Its semantic range thus encompasses a broad spectrum of "going away," from a simple physical departure to a forceful dismissal or a profound theological withdrawal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{G5217}}` appears frequently in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospels, where its usage varies contextually.
1. **Simple Departure/Going:** Often, `{{G5217}}` denotes a straightforward physical departure. For example, Jesus instructs the healed leper, "Go, show yourself to the priest" [[Mark 1:44]]. Similarly, in the parable of the laborers, the master tells them, "Go into the vineyard" [[Matthew 20:4]], [[Matthew 20:7]]. The demons, when cast out, are commanded to "Go!" [[Matthew 8:32]], leading the pigs to rush into the sea.
2. **Forceful Dismissal/Command:** The verb takes on a stronger imperative sense when used in commands of dismissal. Most notably, Jesus twice tells Peter, "Get behind me, Satan!" [[Matthew 16:23]], [[Mark 8:33]], a sharp rebuke that demands withdrawal of evil influence. This usage underscores the authority of the speaker to command a departure.
3. **Jesus's Own Departure:** A profoundly significant use of `{{G5217}}` is found in John's Gospel, where Jesus repeatedly speaks of his own "going away" or "departing." This is not merely a physical movement but a theological concept referring to his return to the Father and his glorification. He tells his disciples, "I go to him who sent me" [[John 7:33]], and later, "Where I am going, you cannot come" [[John 8:21]], [[John 13:33]]. This "going away" is essential for the coming of the Holy Spirit [[John 16:5]], [[John 16:7]] and for the fulfillment of his redemptive mission. His departure is a purposeful movement towards his ultimate destination and a necessary step in the divine plan.
4. **Eschatological Judgment:** Perhaps the most solemn and terrifying use of `{{G5217}}` occurs in the judgment scene of [[Matthew 25:41]], where the King declares to those on his left, "Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels." Here, `{{G5217}}` signifies an ultimate, irreversible, and eternal separation from God's presence, highlighting the gravity of divine judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
`{{G5217}}` shares semantic space with other Greek verbs of motion but carries its own distinct flavor:
* ἔρχομαι (erchomai, `{{G2064}}`): A general verb for "to come" or "to go." While `{{G5217}}` often implies a specific direction *away* from the speaker or a point of origin, ἔρχομαι can be more neutral.
* πορεύομαι (poreuomai, `{{G4198}}`): "To go," "to travel," often implying a journey or a purposeful progression. `{{G5217}}` can be more immediate or a simple withdrawal.
* ἀποχωρέω (apochōreō, `{{G672}}`): "To depart," "to go away." This verb is very close in meaning to `{{G5217}}`, but `{{G5217}}` often retains the nuance of "sinking out of sight" or a more decisive, sometimes final, departure.
The concept of "withdrawal" or "departure" inherent in `{{G5217}}` connects to broader theological themes such as:
* **Separation:** Whether from evil, from a particular place, or in the case of judgment, from God's presence.
* **Obedience:** When used as a command, it often implies an act of submission to authority.
* **Divine Providence:** Especially in Jesus's own departure, which is part of God's overarching plan.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G5217}}` is profound, particularly in its application to the person and work of Jesus Christ.
1. **Christ's Glorification and Ascension:** In John's Gospel, Jesus's repeated declaration "I go away" (often using `{{G5217}}`) is crucial to understanding his mission. It is not merely a physical exit but a purposeful return to the Father, leading to his glorification and the sending of the Holy Spirit. This "going away" is foundational to the New Covenant, enabling the Spirit's indwelling and the intercessory work of Christ at the Father's right hand. It transforms a simple departure into a central act of salvation history.
2. **Authority and Spiritual Warfare:** The powerful command "Get behind me, Satan!" demonstrates Christ's absolute authority over demonic forces and human misguidedness. It is a decisive act of spiritual warfare, demanding the withdrawal of evil influence and the alignment with divine will.
3. **Discipleship and Mission:** When Jesus commands individuals to "go," it often signifies a call to obedient action, whether it is to perform a religious duty, to spread the news of healing, or to engage in the work of the kingdom. It is a directive for active participation in God's purposes.
4. **Eschatological Separation:** The use of `{{G5217}}` in [[Matthew 25:41]] ("Depart from me, you cursed") serves as a stark warning of eternal judgment. It underscores the ultimate and irrevocable separation from God's blessed presence for those who reject His grace. This highlights the absolute nature of divine justice and the eternal consequences of human choices.
### Summary
The Greek verb `{{G5217}}` (hypágō) conveys the meaning "to go away" or "to depart," often with a nuance of withdrawal or sinking out of sight. While it can describe simple physical movement, its biblical usage extends to profound theological dimensions. It is employed in commands of dismissal, highlighting divine authority over evil and human disobedience. Most significantly, `{{G5217}}` describes Jesus's own purposeful "going away" to the Father, a pivotal event signifying his glorification, ascension, and the sending of the Holy Spirit. Furthermore, its use in the context of final judgment underscores the terrifying reality of eternal separation from God. Thus, `{{G5217}}` is a versatile term that encapsulates both literal movement and deep theological truths concerning Christ's mission, divine authority, and eschatological destiny.
TRV