### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chaláō**, represented by `{{G5465}}`, primarily means **to lower**, often translated as "let down" or "strike." Its base definition is to lower, as into a void. This specific action word appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently describing a physical act of lowering an object or person.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5465}}` is used in several distinct and memorable contexts. It is central to the account of the miraculous catch of fish, where Jesus commands Simon to **let down** the nets [[Luke 5:4]], and Simon, in an act of obedience, agrees to **let down** the net [[Luke 5:5]]. The term is also key in the story of the paralytic, whose friends **let down** his bed through a roof to bring him before Jesus [[Mark 2:4]]. Furthermore, it describes the dramatic escapes of the Apostle Paul, who was **let down** in a basket by the wall to evade his enemies ([[Acts 9:25]]; [[2 Corinthians 11:33]]). In a maritime setting, it is used when sailors **strake** (lowered) the ship's sail during a storm [[Acts 27:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the actions associated with **chaláō**:
* `{{G2524}}` **kathíēmi** (to lower): This is a close synonym used in conjunction with `{{G5465}}` in the account of Paul being **let him down** by the disciples [[Acts 9:25]], emphasizing the deliberate action of lowering him to safety.
* `{{G1846}}` **exorýssō** (to dig out... break up): This action precedes the use of `{{G5465}}` in the healing of the paralytic. The men first had **broken it up** the roof before they could **let down** the bed [[Mark 2:4]].
* `{{G1877}}` **epanágō** (to... launch (thrust) out, return): This word is paired with `{{G5465}}` in a direct command from Jesus to Simon to **Launch out** into the deep and **let down** the nets for a catch [[Luke 5:4]].
* `{{G648}}` **apostegázō** (to unroof): In the account of the paralytic, this is the first action taken. The men **uncovered** the roof before breaking it up and letting the bed down, showing a sequence of determined efforts [[Mark 2:4]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G5465}}` carries significant weight within its narrative contexts, often marking a pivotal moment.
* **An Act of Faith:** Simon's decision to **let down** the net is a direct response to Jesus's word, performed in faith despite his own fruitless efforts, which leads to a miraculous outcome [[Luke 5:5]].
* **A Means of Deliverance:** The physical act of being **let down** serves as the method of salvation for Paul, both in Damascus [[Acts 9:25]] and as recounted by Paul himself [[2 Corinthians 11:33]]. Similarly, sailors **strake** the sail as a measure for survival in a storm [[Acts 27:17]].
* **A Vehicle for Compassion:** The lowering of the paralytic's bed is the culmination of his friends' strenuous efforts to bring him to Jesus for healing, demonstrating their persistent care for him [[Mark 2:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5465}}` is a vivid action verb that signifies more than a simple physical motion. It is consistently found at the center of narratives involving faith, deliverance, and compassionate intervention. Whether lowering a net into the sea, a person over a wall, or a bed through a roof, **chaláō** captures a decisive action that changes the course of events for the individuals involved, illustrating how a physical act can be the hinge on which a story of divine power or human determination turns.
TRV