### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apophérō**, represented by `{{G667}}`, means **to bear off**. Derived from ἀπό and φέρω, its base definition is to carry away, either literally or relatively. It appears **7 times** in **5 unique verses**, often describing a purposeful transport from one place or state to another.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural usage, `{{G667}}` signifies several kinds of transport. It is used to describe the transfer of a person into custody, as when the chief priests bound Jesus and **carried him away** to be delivered to Pilate [[Mark 15:1]]. The word also depicts supernatural movement, such as when the beggar was **carried** by angels into Abraham's bosom after his death [[Luke 16:22]]. In the book of Revelation, John is twice **carried away** in the spirit to receive divine visions, first into the wilderness [[Revelation 17:3]] and then to a great and high mountain [[Revelation 21:10]]. Finally, it can describe a more conventional act of transport, such as the plan to **bring** the church's liberality to Jerusalem [[1 Corinthians 16:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{G667}}` is used:
* `{{G32}}` **ángelos** (a messenger; especially an "angel"): This word identifies the agents who **carry** the beggar's soul, highlighting the supernatural nature of the transport [[Luke 16:22]].
* `{{G3860}}` **paradídōmi** (to surrender, i.e yield up, intrust, transmit): This term is used immediately after `{{G667}}` in the account of Jesus' arrest, where he is **carried him away** and then **delivered** to Pilate, showing a sequence of transport and surrender [[Mark 15:1]].
* `{{G599}}` **apothnḗskō** (to die off): This word for dying sets the stage for the use of `{{G667}}`. In the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, both men **died**, but only the beggar is described as being **carried away** to a place of comfort [[Luke 16:22]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual significance of `{{G667}}` is tied to the theme of transition and external agency.
* **Supernatural Transport:** The word is frequently associated with movement that is not of human origin. An individual can be **carried away** by angels [[Luke 16:22]] or "in the spirit" [[Revelation 17:3]], indicating that a divine or spiritual power is initiating the action.
* **Transition of State:** Using `{{G667}}` often marks a critical shift. For the beggar, it is the transition from a life of suffering to the afterlife [[Luke 16:22]]. For Jesus, it is the move from the Jewish authorities to the Roman governor, a pivotal moment in his passion [[Mark 15:1]].
* **Purposeful Delivery:** The action is not aimless. Whether it is bringing a gift to Jerusalem [[1 Corinthians 16:3]] or moving a soul to its destination, the "carrying away" is directed and has a clear objective.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G667}}` does more than simply denote movement. It describes a purposeful act of "bearing off," often initiated by an external force to bring someone or something to a new location, state, or authority. From the physical delivery of a person to a legal authority to the spiritual transport of a soul, the word captures a definitive and significant transition.
TRV