### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pheúgō**, represented by `{{G5343}}`, is a primary verb meaning to **run away**, either literally or figuratively. It appears **33 times** across **31 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning extends from physical running to concepts like shunning an idea or vanishing from existence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5343}}` is used to describe both urgent physical escape and profound spiritual avoidance. In a literal sense, an angel commands Joseph to take his family and **flee** into Egypt to escape Herod [[Matthew 2:13]]. In a moment of fear and failure, the disciples "forsook him, and **fled**" after Jesus's arrest [[Matthew 26:56]]. Figuratively, the word is used to describe escaping divine judgment, as when John the Baptist asks the Pharisees who warned them "to **flee** from the wrath to come" [[Matthew 3:7]]. It also carries the sense of vanishing, as seen when the earth and heaven **fled away** before the great white throne [[Revelation 20:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context and nuances of fleeing:
* `{{G1377}}` **diṓkō** (to pursue (literally or figuratively); by implication, to persecute): This word often appears as the direct counterpart to fleeing. Believers are instructed to **flee** youthful lusts but **follow** righteousness [[2 Timothy 2:22]] and to **flee** certain things while they **follow after** godliness and faith [[1 Timothy 6:11]].
* `{{G436}}` **anthístēmi** (to stand against, i.e. oppose): This term presents a strategic alternative to fleeing. Instead of running from the devil, believers are told to **resist** him, which will cause the devil to **flee** from them [[James 4:7]].
* `{{G863}}` **aphíēmi** (to send forth, in various applications (as follow):--cry, forgive, forsake, lay aside, leave, let (alone, be, go, have), omit, put (send) away, remit, suffer, yield up): This action is often paired with fleeing, as when the disciples first **forsook** Jesus and then **fled** [[Matthew 26:56]], indicating an act of abandonment preceding the escape.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5343}}` is significant, highlighting a believer's required response to both sin and spiritual opposition.
* **A Command to Avoid Sin:** The word is used as a direct command in moral exhortations. Paul instructs believers to **flee** from fornication [[1 Corinthians 6:18]], idolatry [[1 Corinthians 10:14]], and youthful lusts [[2 Timothy 2:22]]. This frames active avoidance as a non-negotiable part of the Christian life.
* **A Response to Danger:** Fleeing can signify a wise act of self-preservation, as with Joseph protecting his family [[Matthew 2:13]], but it can also represent a failure of faith or duty. The hireling **fleeth** because he does not care for the sheep [[John 10:13]], and the disciples **fled** out of fear [[Mark 14:50]].
* **An Instrument of Spiritual Warfare:** While believers are told to flee from sin, the dynamic is reversed with spiritual adversaries. By submitting to God and resisting the devil, the believer causes the enemy to **flee** [[James 4:7]], demonstrating that steadfastness in faith is a powerful offensive posture.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5343}}` is a dynamic word that encompasses more than just physical movement. It serves as a literal instruction for escaping danger, a metaphor for avoiding divine wrath, and a crucial command for shunning moral and spiritual corruption. The context of who is fleeing—and why—determines whether the act represents wisdom, cowardice, or the defeat of a spiritual enemy.
TRV