### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ἀποθλίβω (apothlíbō) `{{G598}}` is a compound word formed from the preposition ἀπό (apo), which can denote separation, completion, or origin, and the verb θλίβω (thlíbō) `{{G2346}}`, meaning "to press," "to crowd," "to oppress," or "to afflict." The prefix ἀπό in this context intensifies the action of pressing, conveying the sense of being "pressed away from" or, more commonly, "pressed from all sides," leading to a state of being crowded or constricted. The base definition "to crowd (from every side)" accurately captures this nuance, resulting in the meaning "to press" or "to squeeze." Its semantic range is primarily physical, describing the forceful constriction or pushing movement caused by surrounding bodies.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb ἀποθλίβω (apothlíbō) `{{G598}}` appears only once in the New Testament, offering a singular yet potent description:
* **[[Luke 8:45]]**: "And Jesus said, 'Who touched me?' When all denied it, Peter said, 'Master, the crowds surround you and are pressing in on you (ἀποθλίβουσιν).'"
In this passage, Jesus has just asked who touched Him, despite being enveloped by a large crowd. Peter's response, using ἀποθλίβουσιν (the present active indicative plural of ἀποθλίβω), emphasizes the overwhelming physical reality of the situation. It was not a mere jostling, but an intense, pervasive "pressing in" or "crowding from every side" by the multitude. This detail underscores the extraordinary nature of the woman's touch being discernible to Jesus amidst such profound physical contact, highlighting the unique spiritual sensitivity of Christ. The verb vividly paints a scene of physical congestion, making Jesus' perception of the power outflow even more remarkable.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding ἀποθλίβω `{{G598}}` is enhanced by examining related Greek terms:
* **θλίβω (thlíbō) `{{G2346}}`**: The root verb, meaning "to press," "to crowd," "to afflict," or "to trouble." While ἀποθλίβω is used physically, θλίβω can extend to metaphorical "tribulation" or "distress," indicating a broader semantic range.
* **συνθλίβω (synthlíbō) `{{G4918}}`**: Another compound of θλίβω, with the prefix σύν (syn) meaning "with" or "together." It means "to press together" or "to crowd together," very similar in physical connotation to ἀποθλίβω's "crowd from every side."
* **πιέζω (piezō) `{{G4084}}`**: To press, to weigh down. This verb is used in [[Luke 6:38]] to describe a "pressed down" measure, conveying the idea of applying significant weight or pressure.
* **ὄχλος (ochlos) `{{G3793}}`**: The noun for "crowd" or "multitude." In [[Luke 8:45]], the ὄχλος is the very agent performing the action of ἀποθλίβω, illustrating the source of the physical pressure on Jesus.
* **συγκλείω (synkleiō) `{{G4788}}`**: To shut up together, to enclose. While not directly about pressing, it relates to the consequence of being pressed in—namely, being confined or enclosed by one's surroundings.
### Theological Significance
Though ἀποθλίβω `{{G598}}` is a term describing a physical reality, its singular occurrence in the New Testament carries subtle yet profound theological implications:
* **The Humanity of Christ**: The use of ἀποθλίβω underscores the genuine humanity of Jesus. He experienced the physical discomfort and constraints of being in a dense crowd, just as any human being would. This grounds His ministry in tangible, relatable reality, affirming His full identification with humanity.
* **Divine Perception Amidst Overwhelm**: The verb highlights the intensity of the physical pressure on Jesus. Yet, despite being so thoroughly "pressed in," Jesus was acutely aware of the specific touch of faith from the woman with the hemorrhage. This remarkable discernment amidst physical chaos emphasizes His divine sensitivity and His ability to perceive individual needs and acts of faith even within a vast, undifferentiated mass of people. It showcases His unique capacity to transcend physical limitations through spiritual awareness.
* **Accessibility and Ministry**: The very crowd that pressed in on Jesus, causing physical discomfort, was also the context for His healing and teaching ministry. Even when physically constrained, Jesus remained accessible to those who sought Him with genuine faith, demonstrating that His mission was not hindered by the realities of human interaction but often unfolded within them.
### Summary
ἀποθλίβω (apothlíbō) `{{G598}}` is a vivid Greek verb, derived from ἀπό and θλίβω, meaning "to crowd from every side" or "to press intensely." Its sole appearance in [[Luke 8:45]] serves to underscore the profound physical reality of Jesus being surrounded and pressed by a multitude. This descriptive term not only highlights the genuine humanity of Christ, experiencing the physical world fully, but also, paradoxically, accentuates His divine perception and ability to discern individual faith and respond with power amidst overwhelming physical contact. It paints a compelling picture of Jesus' accessibility and miraculous discernment within the very real, often chaotic, context of His earthly ministry.
TRV