from ἀπό and ἔρχομαι; to go off (i.e. depart), aside (i.e. apart) or behind (i.e. follow), literally or figuratively:--come, depart, go (aside, away, back, out, … ways), pass away, be past.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apérchomai**, represented by `{{G565}}`, is a versatile verb meaning to depart or go away. It is formed from the words ἀπό (from) and ἔρχομαι (to come or go). Appearing **122 times** in **118 unique verses**, its use in scripture covers a wide range of applications, from simple physical travel to profound theological concepts of separation and fulfillment. It describes the act of going off, aside, behind, or away, both literally and figuratively.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G565}}` is used to describe pivotal moments of departure. It can signify a physical journey, such as when Jesus **departed** into a solitary place to pray [[Mark 1:35]] or when the disciples **went away** to buy oil [[Matthew 25:10]]. The word also carries significant emotional and spiritual weight. After hearing Jesus' hard teaching, many disciples **went** back and walked with him no more [[John 6:66]]. Conversely, it is used to describe an eschatological reality where the wicked **shall go away** into everlasting punishment [[Matthew 25:46]], and a future hope where former things like pain and death **are passed away** [[Revelation 21:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nuances of movement and departure:
* `{{G2064}}` **érchomai** (to come or go): As the root verb of `{{G565}}`, it signifies coming or going in a general sense. Jesus uses it to state his purpose, declaring he has **come** to seek and save the lost [[Luke 19:10]].
* `{{G1525}}` **eisérchomai** (to enter): A direct contrast to departing, this word means to go into or enter. It is often used to describe entering the kingdom of God [[John 3:5]] or entering into life [[Mark 9:43]].
* `{{G1831}}` **exérchomai** (to issue): This verb emphasizes exiting from a source or location. Jesus states that he **proceeded forth** from God [[John 8:42]], and the disciples **went forth** to meet the bridegroom [[Matthew 25:1]].
* `{{G4198}}` **poreúomai** (to traverse, i.e. travel): This word often describes a journey or mission. In a key verse, Jesus explains that if he does not **go away** `{{G565}}`, the Comforter will not come, but if he **depart** `{{G4198}}`, he will send him [[John 16:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G565}}` is significant, highlighting key spiritual concepts.
* **Obedience and Mission:** The word is frequently used for journeys undertaken in obedience to a divine command. Jesus knew he must **go** to Jerusalem to suffer and be killed [[Matthew 16:21]]. Ananias **went his way** to heal Saul as instructed by the Lord [[Acts 9:17]].
* **The Cost of Discipleship:** Departing can represent a decisive choice for or against Christ. The rich young man **went away** sorrowful because he could not part with his possessions [[Matthew 19:22]], while James and John left their father and **went** after Jesus [[Mark 1:20]].
* **Redemptive Fulfillment:** The departure of one thing is often necessary for the arrival of something greater. Jesus' own departure (**go away**) was a prerequisite for the coming of the Comforter [[John 16:7]]. In the end, the final fulfillment of God's promise requires that the old order of death and sorrow has **passed away** [[Revelation 21:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G565}}` is a crucial term that moves beyond mere physical travel. It defines critical moments of decision, illustrates the nature of obedience, and frames the very structure of redemptive history. From a disciple leaving his nets to Jesus departing for the sake of humanity, and to the final passing away of a fallen world, **apérchomai** captures the essential biblical theme that every departure sets the stage for a new arrival.
TRV